Antonio Conte makes bold claim about Liverpool following Philippe Coutinho sale

LIVERPOOL may struggle to qualify for next season’s Champions League without Philippe Coutinho.

By Harry Howes /

Philippe Coutinho GETTY

Philippe Coutinho finally signed for Barcelona yesterday

That’s according to Chelsea boss Antonio Conte.

Coutinho almost left Liverpool during the summer but Jurgen Klopp held firm and he remained at Anfield.

The 25-year-old established himself back into the line-up and made a stunning start to the season, scoring 12 goals and providing nine assists.

The Brazilian had been linked with a move to Barcelona again when the transfer window opened last week and he finally got his wish last night as the La Liga giants finalised a £142m deal.

And Conte admits the transfer may affect the Reds’ chances of success this season.

Five men Liverpool could replace Philippe Coutinho with

 
PHILIPPE COUTINHO could leave Liverpool for Barcelona in January - here are five men the Reds could replace him with.
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Dani Ceballos (Real Madrid) - Reports suggest Liverpool have made Ceballos one of their main transfer targets after the Spaniard fell out with boss Zinedine Zidane over a lack of game time GETTY
Dani Ceballos (Real Madrid) - Reports suggest Liverpool have made Ceballos one of their main transfer targets after the Spaniard fell out with boss Zinedine Zidane over a lack of game time
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    “You’re talking about a good player, but with this price, it’s very difficult to compete with.”

    Chelsea boss Antonio Conte

    “For sure,” he said when asked if Coutinho leaving would affect Liverpool’s top four chances.

    “But Liverpool is a really good team and they have a really good coach.

    “There are three places for five teams in the Champions League.”

    Coutinho’s move to the Nou Camp set a new world record transfer fee for a player without a release clause.

    And while Conte appreciates his talent, he remained coy when quizzed about whether he was worth what Barca paid.

    Antonio Conte GETTY

    Chelsea boss Antonio Conte is not convinced Philippe Coutinho is worth £142m

    He added: “You’re talking about a player with another team.

    “For sure, the valuation is a big valuation.

    “You’re talking about a good player, but with this price, it’s very difficult to compete with.”

    Chelsea endured a goalless draw at Norwich in the FA Cup last night to force a replay at Stamford Bridge.

    Conte’s side return to action on Wednesday as they host Arsenal in the first leg of the Carabao Cup semi-final.