Actually it wouldn't be the worst scenario, imo.
How likely are Brazil to win the world cup? How likely are transferprices to be even more insane this summer?
There is a reason we already see a lot of transfer-activity this window, even though top-clubs usually don't do business half-way through the season. The reason: Everybody is dead-scared that the prices are just spinning out of control - a world cup always inflates prices - last summer was a record-summer etc.
Therefore it could be wise to secure him now, so Liverpool don't all of a sudden raise the price after a successful world cup for him.
I just heard Diana Kristinne make some valid points in a podcast, about a deal in the summer being okay for all 3 parties:
Outcome:
Liverpool:
- Keeps their best player for the decisive part of the season, fighting for the CL-spot and getting at least to the round of 16th in CL.
- Keeps Coutinho somewhat happy, because he can finally join Barca, his dream-club, and he can't blame them too much, as he was stupid enough to pen a 5 year contract just before wanting to leave.
Coutinho:
- Gets to join Barca
- Can focus fully on Liverpool and his life their until the world cup is over (not disturbed by suddenly moving/adapting to a new place etc.)
- Is not disturbed by all the transfer-buzz in the media
- Misses out on a La Liga trophy, but can play some Champions League instead.
- Can play in more than 1 competition during the spring (Copa practically ends in February).
Barcelona:
- Gets Coutinho for a better price than in the summer
- Secures the deal, and can prepare the other summer-transfers more calmly
Paying for him now and getting him now is ideal for us, but not for Liverpool, and maybe not Coutinho, so I would be fine with the other option, even though getting him now would be best.