Chelsea 'leading Manchester United in race for Philippe Coutinho'

Chelsea have emerged as the bookmakers' favourite to sign Barcelona midfielder Philippe Coutinho.

While the Brazilian has enjoyed a respectable stint on loan at Bayern Munich, the German outfit are unlikely to take up their option to push through a permanent deal.

That has led to frequent speculation regarding a potential return to the Premier League for a player who has previously starred for Liverpool.

According to 888 Sport, Stamford Bridge is the most likely destination for Coutinho, who has allegedly been offered out by his parent club.

The West Londoners are said to be ahead of the likes of Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur in the race for the 27-year-old's signature.

Barcelona are keen to cash in on Coutinho as they look to reshape their first-team squad.