Arsenal warned against signing Philippe Coutinho from Barcelona

Nigel Winterburn believes the playmaker would obstruct the development of the Gunners’ prospects

Arsenal have previously been interested in signing Coutinho (Getty Images)

Former Arsenal defender Nigel Winterburn wouldn’t sign Philippe Coutinho from Barcelona if he were Gunners boss Mikel Arteta.

Winterburn, who played for Arsenal from 1987 to 2000, has warned the manager off the midfielder ahead of the summer transfer window where the London club will look to improve their team.

Arteta’s side finished eighth in the Premier League and failed to get past the Europa League semi-finals this season which has meant they have failed to qualify for European football for the first time in 25 years.

Coutinho is among a whole host of players that Arsenal are looking at, according to reports, but their former player doesn’t want to see him sign for the club.

Winterburn told FreeSuperTips: “I wouldn’t go down that line, we’ve got a lot of young talent coming through.

“Unless he would be on the right wages or if there was a way to fit him in then it could be an option. It’s been touted around so much I don’t believe it’ll happen.

Winterburn would not sign Coutinho (Arsenal FC via Getty Images)

“Coutinho was very good at Liverpool, but since then I’ve not been impressed and I’m not convinced by it.”

The 28-year-old played in 12 La Liga matches this season, scoring two goals and making two assists.

Arsenal have other options for next season, most notably being Joe Willock.

The star has been on loan to Newcastle United where he became the youngest player to score in six consecutive matches.

While Newcastle want to sign him on a permanent deal, Arsenal could welcome the 21-year-old back for some star quality upfront.

Winterburn added about Willock: “He’s a player I really like, so I hope he is given a chance to come in and fill that role.”