The report suggests Bayern could ask for an extension on their current loan.

Coutinho left Liverpool for £142m, having scored 41 goals across 152 Premier League appearances during his six years at Liverpool.

And Barcelona are already resigned to making a loss on the player, who remains one of the highest earners in La Liga.

As well as Chelsea, Inter Milan have also reportedly been in touch but the Serie A club could only afford a loan – and even then, the terms must be favourable to the San Siro side.

It is suggested that Lautaro Martinez could come into play as part of a deal, with Barcelona keen on signing the Argentina striker as a long-term replacement for 33-year-old Luis Suarez.