IVAN RAKITIC has reportedly snubbed a January move to Manchester United – but he could still join in the summer.
Marca claims the midfielder has rejected interest from the Red Devils, Juventus and Inter Milan after finally breaking into Ernesto Valverde’s starting XI.
Ivan Rakitic has snubbed interest from Man Utd to remain at Barcelona next monthCredit: Getty Images
Rakitic has started the last four matches against Borussia Dortmund, Atletico Madrid, Mallorca and Inter Milan, inspiring his side to victory in each one.
Before that, he had mainly spent his time on the bench, starting just four games since August while making ten appearances as a sub.
It led to speculation that Rakitic was preparing to quit the Nou Camp this winter.
Manchester United have long been tipped as a potential destination for the Croatian.
And it’s reckoned that an unnamed Premier League club had a £13million bid for Rakitic rejected last month.
Juventus and Inter Milan have also been linked in recent times.
But Rakitic is now back in Valverde’s good books.
And he is determined to remain at Barcelona and hold on to his place in midfield for the remainder of the campaign.
However, with age no longer on his side, 31-year-old Rakitic is still open to making a move abroad next year.
Arthur and Frenkie de Jong are sure to become Barcelona’s established first-choice partnership in the near future.
And Rakitic could decide the time is right for a new challenge should Barca lift a third consecutive title in 2020.
As for United, they could decide to pursue other, albeit more costly, targets instead.
Atletico Madrid’s Saul Niguez is said to be on Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s radar.
But Diego Simeone will only consider selling the Spain international for at least £128m.
United are also interested in playmaker Kai Havertz.
But Bayer Leverkusen are holding out for £80m for their top asset.
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Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
