Barcelona have reportedly offered Arsenal ‘assurances’ that they will help seal a move to the Emirates for Philippe Coutinho, whom the club have been chasing for a while.

Philippe Coutinho will be on the move now that the transfer window is open, with the playmaker keen for more minutes to ensure he makes the Brazil squad for the Qatar World Cup.

The 29-year-old, who has played just 608 minutes this season (with two goals) was close to a move to Arsenal last summer only for the arrival of Ronald Koeman to put an end to that move.

After that experience, Arsenal are naturally wary of getting their fingers burned again, at least that’s how the rumour goes.

Barcelona are trying to reassure them that a similar situation would not unfold this time.

Due to his age, Coutinho does not really seem to fit the mould of players that Arsenal are trying to recruit, but the club will be mindful that a lot of experience will be leaving the club in the next six months.

Still, there is something about this rumour that doesn’t sit right with me.

Coutinho would arrive with massive wages and and turns 30 before the start of next season.

Everton and Flamengo are also said to be interested in signing the player, although his wages would be a very big problem for the Brazilian side.