The boy from Rio de Janeiro is settling in at Barcelona.
Philippe Coutinho struck against Valencia to score his first Barcelona goal since leaving Liverpool, becoming the latest in a long line of Brazilians to make his mark at the Nou Camp.
Now Coutinho’s application for a Portuguese passport could open the door for another Brazilian to join Barcelona.
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Coutinho is set to apply for a Portuguese passport through his wife, according to Mundo Deportivo.
In doing so he will open up one of the non-EU spots in Barcelona’s squad.
Luis Suarez found himself in the same situation when he applied for Italian citizenship through his wife.
Spanish clubs are only allowed to register three non-EU players, with those spots currently occupied by Coutinho, Paulinho and Yerry Mina.
When Coutinho makes the switch it will allow Barcelona to sign Brazilian midfielder Arthur from Gremio.
The 21-year-old, who’s been capped by Brazil at Under-20 level, has long been linked with a move to Barcelona, having impressed in the Copa Libertadores with Gremio.
He’ll now be able to join the club without Barcelona having to loan him out on arrival, all thanks to Phil.
What a great bloke.
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