Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson has claimed that he cannot make Philippe Coutinho stay at the club, but admits that he will speak to the Brazilian.
The 25-year-old playmaker has been heavily linked with a move to Barcelona, who have reportedly had a £72m bid and an offer in the region of £80m rejected by the Reds.
Last week, Coutinho handed in a transfer request via email, shortly after the club's American owners Fenway Sports Group released a statement reiterating that he is not for sale.
The former Inter Milan star was ruled out of the Reds' opening Premier League 3-3 draw with Watford on Saturday due to a back injury, and he was not included in the squad for Tuesday's Champions League qualifying first leg against Hoffenheim.
When asked about the situation, Henderson told reporters: "It's a difficult situation for Phil and whatever I say won't help matters, but we want Phil to stay because he's a world-class player."
Asked what he can do to make Coutinho stay, the midfielder said: "Good question. I don't think I can influence the situation but I can have conversations with him."
The Brazilian signed a new long-term contract at Anfield in January.
Danielle Joynson
