Spain international Thiago Alcantara has hinted that Bayern Munich are keen on the idea of keeping hold of on-loan Barcelona midfielder Philippe Coutinho in the next transfer window.
The Brazilian international joined the Bundesliga giants on loan at the start of the season after a disappointing first season at the Nou Camp following his big-money move from Liverpool in January 2018.
But Coutinho, who made a real name for himself during his Liverpool career, has rediscovered a sense of his true qualities at the Allianz Arena this season, scoring nine goals and claiming eight assists in 32 appearances in all competitions.
And that has led to Chelsea showing an interest in signing the creative midfield star, who is reportedly keen on the idea of returning to the Premier League.
But despite reports over the last few weeks suggesting that Bayern were not willing to entertain the idea of keeping hold of the former Inter Milan midfielder, Thiago, who has played alongside Coutinho in the Bayern midfield this season, has hinted that the German club are looking into the possibility of signing him once again, whether it be on a second season-long loan deal or a permanent deal.
"I know him well, he's very good," Thiago told Catalan newspaper La Vanguardia. "I've seen him play since he was 12 years old. I played against him in Brazil at football sala and I loved him.
"He lacks nothing. I like to play with players at a top level and he's a phenomenon. He's a great guy, really hard working, with unbeatable technique and incredible finishing.
"Players go through good moments and some not so good ones and he brings us a lot. We hope he's here next season too."
