Manchester United are expected to be big spenders yet again this summer as Jose Mourinho does not seem totally convinced with the options at his disposal. They are already scouting for some of the most exciting stars in Europe and one player now Mourinho has identified, to solve his midfield problems is Croatian international Ivan Rakitic.
United Open Rakitic Talks:
Currently out injured for at least a month due to a broken finger, Rakitic is one of the most important players for Barcelona at the moment but he is now 30 and Spanish news outfit Don Balon claim that Barcelona could be ready to offload him before the start of the next season.
The story claims that the Catalan giants are already searching for a long-term replacement and could cash in on Rakitic, who is attracting interest from Manchester United. Mourinho is desperate for an established star who can walk into his first team and Rakitic fits the bill well. But is he the right man for United?
Rakitic And His Numbers:
A central midfielder with a Croatian flair, Rakitic is known for his dribbling and a keen eye for goal. He is effective with his close control and is a big game player, who when given any space or time on the ball, can hurt even the best defences.
He is an excellent passer with great vision and can break backlines from deep inside his half and this ability of his has seen Ernesto Valverde use him in a no.6 role this season when Sergio Busquets was unavailable. At 30, he has already played 247 La Liga games and has 90 international caps and can walk into most top teams in Europe.
He has a goal and four assists in 27 games but the defensive side of his game is easy to miss and that is what Mourinho might be attracted to. With Marouane Fellaini and Michael Carrick no more long-term options and Ander Herrera ready to quit this summer, United have Nemanja Matic as the only CDM and Paul Pogba and Scott McTominay as the only options for the other midfield roles.
Rakitic can walk into the first team and will give Mourinho a chance to use a 4-3-3 system, without losing a number in the attack. He can also replace Matic when needed and is a signing that makes a lot of sense for Mourinho.
Chances Of This Happening?
Close To Nil!
Rakitic is settled and is an important part of Valverde’s squad. He is a regular in the first team and has won plenty of trophies with the Catalan giants. Financial incentives will be the only way United can lure him out but it is hard to see Rakitic leave Barcelona before he is asked to.
Stats Courtesy: Whoscored
