Thomas Hein
Ivan Rakitic was one of the best performers on the pitch as Croatia hammered Argentina 3-0 in the World Cup and now reports from Spain claim that the midfielder is a target for Manchester United.
Diario Gol (h/t Daily Star) claims that the 30-year-old Barcelona star wants to end his career playing in the Premier League and we are ready to bid £35m for the Croatian maestro. Rakitic would also demand a reported salary of £10.5m-per-season.
A reason that could have played a role in Rakitic looking for a move away is that Barcelona signed Philippe Coutinho in the winter window and the Croatian might see fewer minutes on the pitch in the upcoming season.
While we have already brought in Diogo Dalot and Fred this season, there is a need for more creative players in the side and Rakitic’s passing range certainly would be of great help to us.
The price for the 30-year-old might not be too big and Rakitic is a world-class player. The only fear with such a transfer is the fact that the Croatian has not played in a quick and tough league like England and he might take time to adjust.
Additionally, this could be his one final transfer before retirement, so he might be looking for one big payoff before he hangs up his boots.
Getting to watch Rakitic control the tempo and ping balls around Old Trafford would be great but his age seems to be the only stumbling block at the moment.
