Former Barcelona idol and Brazilian sensation Ronaldinho believes that Liverpool’s Philippe Coutinho would be the perfect signing for his old side as they look to replace Xavi.

The attacking midfielder was one of very few bright sparks in a dull season at Anfield, with his performances enough to win him the club’s Player of the Year award and also earn him a spot in the PFA Team of the Year – he was the only representative from the Merseyside club.

While Raheem Sterling’s contract situation has rumbled on, Coutinho has recently committed his future to Liverpool with a five-year contract and spoken of his happiness with his current situation.

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However, Ronaldinho has thrown a spanner in the works by claiming that his 22-year-old compatriot is just the sort of player Barca “look for” and that he could be an ideal successor for Xavi – who played his last game for the Catalans last weekend:

“Coutinho has had a fantastic season - he has been one of the best midfield players in Europe - and when you think he has been playing in a team that has not been performing well that is an even bigger achievement,” he is quoted by the Liverpool Echo.

“I can’t speak for him and I can’t speak for Barcelona - but I know what Barcelona look for in a player and he has all those qualities.

“After all those years at the club Xavi has left and Iniestia is now in his 30’s - they will need to address that. That is why I think Barcelona and Coutinho would be the perfect fit,” added Ronaldinho.

“Playing with great players makes you better, I know that. Not only would he win trophies with Barcelona, but playing with Neymar, Messi, Suarez, Iniesta, is going to make him a better player.”

Barcelona are unable to officially sign players until January 2016 due to a transfer embargo.

Luis Suarez left Liverpool to sign for the Nou Camp outfit last year, and has since claimed the La Liga title and is set to appear in the Copa del Rey and Champions League finals.

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