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Coutinho: Barca talk complicated

Cape Town - Liverpool sensation Philippe Coutinho has attempted to deflect talk of a move to Barcelona, claiming the matter is "complicated" by his long-term contract at Anfield.

The Brazil international enjoyed his best form in a Reds shirt this past season, scoring 13 goals and providing seven assists in 31 Premier League outings as Jurgen Klopp's side finished fourth to qualify for the Champions League.

Coutinho's exploits for the Merseysiders saw him repeatedly linked with a switch to the Camp Nou, but the 24-year-old attacking midfielder is not looking any further than the present as he prepares to skipper his country against Australia in a friendly on Tuesday.

"Talking about this is complicated," the Samba star told reporters. "I have a contract with my club and it is long.

"So my focus is on the present and the national team. My focus is here."

Coutinho has racked up 42 goals in 182 appearances across all competitions for the English giants since his arrival from Inter Milan in January 2013.

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