Philippe Coutinho would be wise to stay with Liverpool and reject any possible move to Barcelona, according to his countryman Lucio.
The former Brazil international, who currently plays for FC Goa in the Indian Super League, feels Coutinho would be a "fill in" player for Luis Enrique instead of an integral part of the team as he is at Liverpool.
With Lionel Messi injured and Pedro sold to Chelsea in the summer window, Barcelona could target more attacking players when their FIFA-imposed transfer embargo is lifted in January. Barcelona forward Neymar and club director Robert Fernandez have said they think Coutinho could be a fit at the Camp Nou.
But Lucio has urged his "good friend" to think twice before considering a move away from Anfield and new manager Jurgen Klopp.
"If it was my decision, I would stay. If I was Coutinho, I would not leave Liverpool," Lucio told IBTimes UK.
"Barcelona have several star players like [Lionel] Messi, [Luis] Suarez and Neymar. If Coutinho joins Barcelona, he has to play wherever the coach wants him to play, which would be to fill in here and there."
Lucio called his fellow Brazilian international Liverpool's "standout player" last season and believes he can go on to become one of the storied club's all-time greats if he continues to play on Merseyside.
"Regarding his future, it is a decision only Coutinho could take, but as a friend I would suggest him to stay at Liverpool," Lucio said.
"Coutinho is my very good friend. I want to talk more about him, my friend. One thing in Europe is they not only want you to be a good player, but a good athlete. Apart from footballing characteristics, one has to look after themselves and that is what managers and coaches insist on.
"Discipline is very important to become a top player. If a player has that, he will be successful wherever he is going to play. I am sure Coutinho will do well wherever he is going to play."
Lucio, who played every minute in Brazil's 2002 march to the World Cup title, was injured in his last Indian Super League match for FC Goa, a 4-0 defeat to Chennaiyin FC. The 37-year-old remains upbeat and optimistic about his club's chances for the remainder of the ISL season.
"I am improving and I am happy the team could get a result. It is important that team wins," he said. "The players are just beginning to play together and the performances will only improve as the season progresses."