The future of Philippe Coutinho remains in the balance, but bettors believe that Barcelona are already chasing Plan B.
Just over 53% of punters believe that the Brazilian will remain in England, and still has a future at Anfield. There’s no hiding that Coutinho wants a move to Spain, but with the two clubs yet to finalise a deal, the transfer is impacting on other potential deadline day moves.
Liverpool were rumoured to be lining up Thomas Lemar as a possible replacement for Coutinho and the French midfielder remains a 13/19 chance of joining the Reds. However, just under 37% of punters believe that Lemar could actually end up playing his football at Barcelona. Barca are still in the market for players, and the Monaco player could be a direct replacement for Neymar.
Traders have reacted to the sudden surge in bets on Lemar heading to Spain. Four bookmakers have cut the odds of this transfer happening, and odds are now as short as 25/1 with one bookie (50/1 best odds).
Does this flurry of betting activity mean Philippe Coutinho is staying put? One bookie has him at 8/11 to remain in the North West.
