Manchester United want Barcelona superstar: Just what the midfield needs

Manchester United are interested in the services of FC Barcelona midfielder Ivan Rakitic, it has been claimed.

According to Sport, the Croatian international’s future at Catalonia hangs in the balance following the club’s reluctance to renew his contract, which expires in 2021.

As a result, a host of top clubs around Europe, including Manchester United will vie for his signature in the next summer transfer window.

Ivan Rakitic: Just what the Manchester United midfield needs

In the past four seasons, the Red Devils have struggled to find the right balance in the middle of the park.

However, that has changed to an extent, under new coach Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, who has successfully utilised Paul Pogba’s quality, while Nemanja Matic’s game has also improved.

But, the defeat to Paris Saint-Germain made it clear that the Red Devils still have a long way to go if they are to compete with European giants or even league rivals in Chelsea, Liverpool and Manchester City next season. And that’s where Rakitic could come into the fray.

The Barcelona star is widely regarded as one of Europe’s top central midfielders, particularly due to his excellent work ethic and technical brilliance that allows him to not only ease the transition from midfield to offence, but also provide stability at the base of midfield.

Rakitic is a composed operator of the ball, who can rotate possession at a quick-rate while providing the creative spark going forward. The Croatian has an eye for that defence-splitting through pass, when he gets forward.

The 30-year old can be utilised as a midfield partner to Pogba and while the Frenchman’s ability to burst forward will help them during the transitions, Rakitic can be used for his distribution and ability to keep the ball.

Rakitic is an expert when it comes to set-pieces as well, which could prove to be beneficial for the Red Devils for obvious reasons.

The addition of Rakitic, however, could mark the end of Herrera’s stint at United. The Spaniard has been in excellent form under Solskjaer, but it would be really difficult to accommodate both into the starting lineup if United persist with their 4-3-3 formation.

But, it’s an upgrade United should definitely make if they are to compete with the likes of Chelsea, Manchester City, Tottenham Hotspur and Liverpool next season.