Coutinho reduced to tears after Barcelona's failed late attempt to agree fee with Liverpool

Brazilian playmaker was the subject of a deadline day offer from the Primera Liga club, the fourth bid to be rejected by Liverpool for their star player.

Philippe Coutinho, right, scored Brazil's second goal in a 2-0 win over Ecuador on Friday to ensure his nation's place at the 2018 World Cup. Pilar Olivares / Reuters

Philippe Coutinho broke down in tears after learning his potential move to Barcelona was blocked after a fourth bid was rejected by Liverpool, according to reports in the Spanish media.

Coutinho was Barca's top transfer target following the world record €222 million (Dh967m) departure of Brazilian forward Neymar to Paris Saint-Germain last month.

Barcelona had three bids rejected by Liverpool before lodging a fourth on deadline day reported to be worth €160m. That too was dismissed by the Premier League club, who remained adamant that Coutinho would not be leaving this summer.

READ MORE:

• In the black: Neymar and Morata exits help Primera Liga clubs post collective transfer profit
• Premier League deadline day verdict: Chelsea among losers, Swansea the big winners
• Primera Liga so far: Valencia a joy at Real Madrid as Messi lifts the gloom for Barcelona

Coutinho's desire to join Barca was made clear last month when he submitted a transfer request to Liverpool via email. However, Liverpool's stance did not waver and the 25-year-old playmaker has remained at the club.

Coutinho was on international duty with Brazil during the final days of the transfer window, scoring the second goal against Ecuador to guarantee his national team's place at the 2018 World Cup in Russia.

But according to Mundo Deportivo, the celebrations turned sour for Coutinho who according to the Spanish newspaper was reduced to tears upon learning of Barca's unsuccessful attempt to agree a deal with Liverpool in the final hours of the transfer window.

Coutinho is yet to feature for Liverpool this season due to a back injury but is expected to make a return to the team following the international break.

Liverpool's next task is a Premier League trip to Manchester City next Saturday.