Manchester United, Chelsea and Leicester City interested in Coutinho

Philippe Coutinho, a Brazilian attacking midfielder on loan at German Bundesliga toppers Bayern Munich from Spanish top flight giants Barcelona. Photo: Getty

Chelsea, Manchester United and Leicester have all reportedly contacted Philippe Coutinho's agent ahead of a summer move.

Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo  claims the
Blues remain the Brazilian's preferred choice but Newcastle have also unofficially registered an interest.

The 27-year-old is currently on a season-long loan at Bayern Munich from Barcelona but faces a fight to return before the end of the season following ankle surgery.

The Bundesliga champs have the option to make Coutinho's move permanent but have so far seemed unwilling to meet Barca's £100million price tag.

The Catalans hope to recoup up to £71m from a bidding war between Premier League sides, with the player keen on a return to England's top-flight.

Despite failing to live up to expectations at the Nou Camp, the £142m ace has a number of clubs queuing up for his signature.

Chelsea look the firm favourites to land him after Liverpool rejected the chance to re-sign him over the phone.

Brazil legend Rivaldo has insisted Coutinho can get back to his best by leaving Barcelona for Stamford Bridge this summer.

While Mauricio Pochettino reportedly earmarked Coutinho as a statement signing should he take over at Newcastle following the Magpies' hotly-anticipated £300m takeover.
TheSunUK