Barcelona have long been linked with Philippe Coutinho and the Liverpool player recently responded to the rumours of a move to the Camp Nou.

He admitted he was flattered to be considered a possible target for the European giant, but insisted that his current focus is on Liverpool and on their battle for Champions League qualification.

"I'm pleased to know a great club [like Barcelona] is interested," the midfielder told ESPN Brasil.

"The recognition of my work is cool.

"Barcelona are one of the best teams in the world, but no news has come to me because it goes to my coach if it does.

"What I have to do is focus on football and those other things are resolved by the business people."

Specifically, the midfielder hopes that the Reds can defeat Middlesbrough at home on the final day of the Premier League season, a result which would wrap up a top four finish.

"I have a contract with Liverpool and there is a good chance for us to be in the Champions League next year," he said.

"Liverpool is a great club and we have to return it to the Champions League."

Coutinho moved to Anfield from Inter in 2013 and has scored 41 goals in his 180 Liverpool appearances.