Philippe Coutinho Denies Knowledge of Paris Saint-Germain Offer
The Brazil playmaker scored a hat trick for his country Wednesday and said afterwards that, as far as he knows, there has been no transfer bid.
OMNISPORT
Philippe Coutinho insists he knows nothing about a rumored 23 million pound ($33.3 million) bid from Paris Saint-Germain for his services.
The Liverpool playmaker scored a hat trick as Brazil thrashed Haiti 7-1 in the Copa America Centenario on Wednesday, the same day it was rumored that the Ligue 1 champion has rivaled Barcelona in the race to seal his signature.
Reports indicate that PSG has made the first move by submitting a formal offer to Liverpool, but the player himself says he has not been informed of any interest.
“As far as I know, there’s no offer,” he said. “I’m here with the national team, this subject is for my representatives. More important for me is to be here, focused on the national team and having a good tournament. That’s where my head is.”
Coutinho’s international teammate Willian, himself said to be the subject of interest from Manchester United this summer, also made it clear that he is paying no attention to his future in club football.
Incoming United boss Jose Mourinho is reported to be keen to take the Chelsea winger to Old Trafford, but the 27-year-old says neither he nor any of his colleagues will have their heads turned this summer.
“No, no, we have to focus here. The mentality… my head is here. We have to think only about the national team.”
He continued: “I am happy for him. He scored three goals, he played well. I think we have to... not only him but the whole team, we have to play like we played today.
“I think we had a great game tonight, and now we have to continue in the same way and win game by game. We have to improve always, because in football you can’t stop, never stop. You have to always improve and I think we are doing that.”
Brazil’s victory puts the side back on track in Group B following an opening draw with Ecuador.
Victory against Peru in the final group game in Boston on Sunday will secure top spot for Dunga’s men.