Barcelona News: Lionel Messi has big reason for wanting Liverpool star Philippe Coutinho

                                
LIONEL MESSI wants Barcelona to sign Philippe Coutinho to boost their chances of Champions League glory - despite the Liverpool star being cup-tied.
 

Barcelona failed to sign Coutinho from Liverpool in the summer despite submitting three bids for the 25-year-old.
Coutinho also handed in a transfer request in order to force a Nou Camp move but Jurgen Klopp was just able to retain the services of his star asset.
Speculation continues to rumble on that the Brazil international could join in January - despite the fact he would be cuptied for Barcelona’s Champions League campaign.
However, Spanish website Don Balon says Messi wants Coutinho to sign for Barcelona because he feels it could unlock the best from Andres Iniesta.

Iniesta’s stock in Barcelona has never been higher.
The Spain international was given the luxury of a lifetime contract earlier this month, meaning he will be at the club until he decides to leave. 
The 33-year-old, however, is entering the twilight years of his career.
And Don Balon claim Messi reckons Coutinho would allow manager Ernesto Valverde to save Iniesta for their biggest European games.
Meanwhile, the Liverpool star is out of their Premier League clash with Huddersfield this afternoon.

Coutinho has injured his groin and is also a doubt for their Champions League game with Maribor in midweek.And Iniesta is out of the Barcelona squad for today’s clash against Athletic Bilbao.
The veteran is sidelined with a thigh strain sustained in midweek.