Barcelona are considering Arsenal midfielder Mesut Ozil as an alternative to Philippe Coutinho if they can’t land the Liverpool star in January, according to Mundo Deportivo.
The Catalan publication say Barca are aware that Coutinho may not be a realistic target for the winter window and are considering Ozil as a viable “plan B”.
The 29 year old has two things going in his favour. Firstly, he will be available relatively cheaply as the Gunners may not want to let the German leave for nothing at the end of the season if he does’t sign a new contract. Secondly, he will be available to play in the Champions League as the midfielder has only played in the Europa League and won’t be cup tied.
Ozil’s age could however count against him with Mundo Deportivo saying that at 25, Coutinho is seen as the future of the club but Barca are mindful that they need a backup plan in place in case their move for the Brazilian can not be finalised.
