The January transfer window does not open for another two months but big European clubs are already making plans for the winter.

Following a summer of constant linking to Liverpool star Philippe Coutinho, the Spanish side Barcelona are once again setting their sights on the Anfield-based club.

But this time, Coutinho is not in the focus of attention.

The Catalans are said to have given up on the Brazilian midfielder as they are looking at former player Thiago Alcantara as a midfield alternative. Instead, the Catalans now turn their attention to the 18-year-old Ben Woodburn who has been making huge strides to prominence over the past couple of months.

The Spanish media outlet Don Balon is suggesting that Barcelona want to sign one of Liverpool’s best young stars who made quite an impression in Wales’ failed bid to earn their place at the 2018 FIFA World Cup.

Woodburn went on to break a couple of records with Wales and turn plenty of heads around Europe. Barcelona are said to have already approached Woodburn’s representatives about a possible switch to Spain but Liverpool are determined to once again make a big statement in front of the powerful rival.

The Reds are keen to hang on the player eyed as the future star of the club and there are growing reports that the young Welshman will soon be tied down to a new long-term deal at the Anfield.

Liverpool this week recorded their biggest away win in European competition by beating Maribor away 7-0. Barcelona, in the meantime, play host to Olympiakos Piraeus on Wednesday night.

The Catalans can be found at 1/1 (2.00) betting odds to score 2+ goals in the first half of the match.