Coutinho was clear with Liverpool from the off; he had Suarez house hunting

Philippe Coutinho says he had former Liverpool striker Luis Suarez house hunting for him ahead of today’s £142million move to Barcelona.

Liverpool and Barca agreed the fee on Saturday and today Coutinho was unveiled at Camp Nou to the media, signing a five-and-a-half-year contract.

However, Barca fans will have to wait to see their new signing in action after the Catalan giants announced he presented with a thigh injury during his medical this morning, which is set keep him sidelined for around 20 days.

Coutinho has maintained he was straight with Liverpool since the summer, when Barca failed with three bids to sign the 25-year-old.

“I was always clear from the beginning and I want to thank everyone who understood what my desire was. I want to thank everyone at Liverpool and I want to get playing again.

“I gave everything I could. Unfortunately they couldn’t win but I lived there for five years, my family was very happy there, I would like to thank them again,” said Coutinho.

The new Barcelona recruit sought advice from ex-Liverpool team-mate Suarez and Brazilian compatriot Neymer before heading to the Nou Camp.

“I spoke to Neymar and he has nothing but good things to say about the team, the city and the dressing room. I also spoke to Luis Suarez and also Paulinho, and they also had good things to say.

“He [Suarez] has been house hunting for me. He is good friend.

“We had good period together in Premier League. It’s an honour to play with him again.”

Coutinho will be handed the No 14 shirt by Barcelona, according to Sky sources.

It has iconic status at the club as it was the number worn by Johan Cruyff.