Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers says the club are hopeful Phillipe Coutinho will sign a new contract with the club before the 2014-15 season kicks off, according to the Guardian.
The Brazilian playmaker has been a huge hit since arriving from Inter Milan in January 2013, and Rodgers views the 22-year-old as a key player for the future.
Speaking after the Reds 3-1 defeat to Manchester United in Miami, Rodgers said: “I am not sure when it will be done. I haven’t spoken to any of the directors in the last few days so I am not sure where we are on that, but obviously he is someone we want to tie up for a period of time.
“I am sure I will hear more about it when I get back on Tuesday.”
Coutinho struck five goals in 37 appearances for the Reds last season, and established himself as a crucial player in the clubs pursuit for a first Premier League title.
“It’s all in hand. He’s certainly on that list (for a new contract),” Rodgers continued.
“He’s a valuable player and a great asset to the club. He’s come in here and shown his quality, and really developed as a young player.
“Now he’s moving into the best years of his life as a footballer. He’s 22 and hopefully, by the time the next World Cup comes around, he will be an important part of the Brazil team. I’m sure his best years will be at Liverpool.
“He came back to pre-season with a great level of fitness – right on the limit of his weight. He’s in great condition, clearly worked hard in the off-season and, since he’s come back, we’ve seen in the games how strong and aggressive he is.”
