Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly set to do battle with Chelsea for the signature of Barcelona outcast Philippe Coutinho.
The former Liverpool attacker is widely expected to depart Camp Nou this summer, having failed to make a lasting impression since his £142m transfer from Anfield.
The 27-year-old has spent this season on loan at Bayern Munich, although the Bavarian giants are said to be unwilling to exercise their option of a permanent deal.
According to The Mirror, Barca have been in contact with Chelsea over a potential loan move, but the Blues would rather sign Coutinho now rather than at the end of a temporary deal next summer.
The report also claims that Tottenham may be willing to include an obligation-to-buy clause in a loan deal, although the club's finances have been significantly hit by the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.
Everton, Leicester City and Manchester United have also been credited with an interest in the winger, who has registered eight goals and six assists in the Bundesliga this season.
Coutinho has netted 21 times in 76 games for Quique Setien's side since his arrival in 2018.
Ben Knapton
