The former Brazil international has revealed that the Catalan club are paying close attention to the Liverpool attacker.

Ronaldinho has claimed that former club Barcelona are watching Philippe Coutinho, and have 'a lot of admiration' for the Liverpool star.

The Brazilian, who lined out for the Catalan giants between 2003 and 2008 is currently a club ambassador for Barcelona, and believes Luis Enrique's side are interested in the 24-year-old.

Coutinho is currently sidelined with an ankle injury, but is due to return in the next few weeks. He had been in excellent form for Jurgen Klopp's side before his injury, scoring five goals in 13 Premier League games this season.

Ronaldinho has backed him to pick up from where he left off when he returns, and believes he will continue to be monitored by Barcelona if he can keep impressing.

“I hope when he returns from injury that he will continue the form he has been showing all season with Liverpool," the 36-year-old told the Sun.

“He has been one of the stand out players in Europe this season – and I know there is a lot of admiration of him at Barcelona.

“Liverpool will want to keep him, they have built the team around him.

“But when you play at that level then there is always interest.”

Coutinho has previously been linked with a move to Barcelona, where midfielder Xavi has indicated his desire to play alongside the Brazil international.

“When you play at the level he is there is always going to be talk, but for now he needs to ignore all that and stay focused, because I think Liverpool have a real chance this season.," Xavi told Goal.

“There are not many players that can improve Barcelona, but if you are asking me if he is one of them, on this form, I think he is. Technically he is very good. He would suit Barcelona's philosophy well.”