Nike have seemingly jumped the gun in announcing Barcelona’s acquisition of Liverpool playmaker Philippe Coutinho.
The sportswear giant and Barcelona apparel sponsor advertised customisation of the 2017/18 kit using the Brazilian on their online store.
The caption read: “Philippe Coutinho is ready to light up Camp Nou. Get your 2017-18 FC Barcelona kit with the Magician’s name on it. Act fast – free personalisation only available until 6 January.”
Nike later deleted the page and no further comment has been made with many left wondering if it was a PR blunder or online hacking.
Coutinho is widely expected to join the Catalan giants having failed to complete a switch in the summer.
BREAKING: Nike have announced Barcelona’s signing of Phillipe Coutinho on their website. pic.twitter.com/2BM5PsOzcJ
— Transfer Related (@TransferRelated) December 31, 2017
A bid of £115million was turned down by Liverpool but reports have suggested their stance is softening as Barca prepare another bid in January.
The 25-year-old has been in stunning form since handing in a summer transfer request, scoring seven Premier League goals and adding a further six assists.