Croatia midfielder Ivan Rakitic has had a sensational campaign this season. He has almost single handedly guided Sevilla to Europa League glory. No wonder why several European heavyweights are circling around him like vultures.
Back in the January transfer window, La Liga expert Guillem Balague wrote that Rakitic, is certain to leave the club in summer. Liverpool Echo reported that Reds manager Brendan Rodgers has shown keen interest in the player and has sent scouts to keep an eye on the midfielder.
Manchester United who are in desperate need of adding quality midfielders to their ranks were also linked with a move for Rakitic.
Last month, reports emerged in Spain that La Liga giants Real Madrid are considering making a formal move for Rakitic. Sevilla have offered him a contract extension but talks seem to have stalled. Madrid meanwhile also spoken to the player’s agent and brother regarding a possible move in summer.
Rakitic himself however hinted of his desire to join Real Madrid. He said before the Europa League final:
“Madrid? We’ve got to wait for the final, and the World Cup, then we’ll see. This year we’ve taken a big step forward, but all players want to play in the Champions League”.
Today Mundo Deportivo, a Catalan based newspaper says that Barcelona are showing interest in him as well. Rakitic isn’t a priority for Barcelona at the moment, but he is the first choice in case any of the club’s midfielders leaves the club and they have enquired Sevilla about his availability and price.
His signing wouldn’t be easy as Sevilla are trying to renew his contract and the two Madrid clubs are also interested in his signing. The player’s buyout clause is €40m but he and the club have a pact to get it down to €20-25m in case a ‘big’ club knocks at the door. Sevilla are keen to keep the player though and ready to offer him an improved contract to convince him to stay.
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