Chelsea have allegedly emerged as the favourites to secure a deal for Barcelona midfielder Philippe Coutinho.

While the Catalan giants would prefer to cash in on the Brazilian, the financial implications of the coronavirus pandemic mean that club officials will realistically need to be open to loan agreements.

According to The Express, that could increase the chances of the former Liverpool man returning to the Premier League with Chelsea.

The report suggests that the Blues would be willing to pay a £10m loan fee, as well as contributing to the playmaker's wages in full.

Arsenal, Everton and Newcastle United have also been linked with the 27-year-old, although it was claimed at the weekend that Tottenham Hotspur had ended their interest.

Coutinho has enjoyed a productive campaign on loan at Bayern Munich, contributing nine goals from 32 appearances in all competitions.