Liverpool target Coutinho hopeful of Inter stay

Posted Tuesday, January 22, 2013 by Goal.com

The 20-year-old is the subject of interest from the Reds, whose pursuit of Wesley Sneijder came to naught, but would rather focus on his career with the Nerazzurri

Liverpool target Philippe Coutinho has outlined his preference to stay at Inter.

The 20-year-old attacking midfielder has been the subject of interest from the Reds, whose hopes of signing his now-former San Siro team-mate, Wesley Sneijder, were dashed when the Dutchman opted to join Galatasaray.

Reports had linked Brendan Rodgers's side with an £8 million bid for the starlet that was rejected by the Nerazzurri.

"I don't feel that I'm on my way out," Coutinho told Sky Sport 24.

"I hope to stay at Inter. I feel the coach and the club trust me.

"Now I'm focused only on doing my best in my job and getting back on the field soon."

The youngster has made only five appearances in Serie A for Andrea Stramaccioni's side in 2012-13 but impressed during a short-term loan at Espanyol in Spain last season.

If he were to join the Reds, Coutinho would become the Premier League club's second signing of the January transfer window after the capture of Daniel Sturridge from Chelsea.