Former Liverpool defender Phil Thompson has urged the Reds to re-sign Barcelona's Philippe Coutinho this summer.

The Brazil international has failed to make a lasting impact at Camp Nou since arriving in a big-money move from Anfield and has been the subject of widespread speculation regarding a move back to the Premier League.

Despite Coutinho being unable to replicate the form he showed at Liverpool, Thompson has expressed his belief that Jurgen Klopp should seriously consider bringing the winger back to Merseyside.

Speaking to Sky Sports News, Thompson said: "They are probably looking at that creative midfield player. Would you take Coutinho back? I would, in a heartbeat. I think he's a creative genius.

"You look back at his Liverpool career and he was absolutely terrific. He's not too old and I still think he could come back.

"It probably won't happen but it's that creative player just off the front three that would probably just tip the balance."

Chelsea are reportedly leading the race for Coutinho's signature, with the 27-year-old registering nine goals and eight assists during his loan spell with Bayern Munich this season.