Barcelona 'fear Antoine Griezmann could become new Philippe Coutinho'

Barcelona chiefs have reportedly expressed concern that new signing Antoine Griezmann could end up heading down a similar path to Philippe Coutinho at the Camp Nou following a difficult start to the season for the Frenchman.

Griezmann, who completed a move to Barcelona from Atletico Madrid for a fee of £108m in July, is yet to endear himself to the club's support.

Having only managed four goals in his opening 15 games, there are doubts over his ability to link up with Lionel Messi, with Griezmann so far playing in several different attacking positions under Ernesto Valverde.

According to Sport, there is a concern that Griezmann could fall victim to the same fate as Coutinho.

The latter joined Barcelona for an initial £105m, rising to a potential £142m with add-ons, in January 2018, but only managed 13 La Liga goals in 52 appearances, leading to the Brazilian joining Bayern Munich on loan over the summer.

It is claimed that Griezmann recently dined with Messi and Luis Suarez as he looks to build a relationship with the duo.