Andres Iniesta hints at Coutinho and Mina signings

Bengaluru, December 15: Barcelona captain Andres Iniesta has promised Liverpool star Philippe Coutinho that he would be regarded as a key player for the club as the Catalans are likely to push for the Brazilian once again in January.

The Barcelona legend spoke about the Liverpool ace and another target, Yerry Mina.

We have often seen Barcelona players and former players praising their targets in public and Iniesta's comments on Coutinho will surely make Liverpool management worried and they can expect another big offer for their star Brazilian in January.

Iniesta said: "I think they would be two important reinforcements to the squad.

"If the club wants to strengthen those positions, it should be with players that can be prepared to withstand the pressure of a club like this, and they would be two big signings.

"But nothing has happened, so it's difficult."

Liverpool managed to hold onto Coutinho their star midfielder despite three bids from Barcelona and the player officially putting a transfer request. However, the Brazil playmaker is still wanted by the Catalan giants and looks destined to head to Spain.

Meanwhile Colombian international defender Yerry Mina has been tipped to replace ageing former Reds star Javier Mascherano as Barcelona look to build on a strong start.

Mascherano is 33 right now and Barcelona are looking to cash in on him and bring 23-year-old Mina who could replace the Argentine for the long run.

The Blaugrana are currently top of La Liga and will face Chelsea in the Champions League knock-out stages. Iniesta also commented on Barcelona's upcoming Champions League fixture against Chelsea in the round of 16.

He said: "The first thing I thought was that it was a hard and complicated match against a very powerful team in every way.

"Some very nice memories, the best I've ever lived, came to mind."