Manchester United asked to pay £45m for La Liga star: Pros and cons of signing him

Manchester United’s long-standing interest in Barcelona midfielder Ivan Rakitic continues, if reports are to be believed.

The Catalan club have rejected a bid of £31 million from the Red Devils as they want at least £45 million for the Croatian International, as per Spanish outlet Sport.

Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has picked out the 31-year-old as a backup for Paul Pogba, whose future is unclear.

The French International recently revealed his desire to leave Old Trafford this summer in search of a new challenge elsewhere.

Considering Manchester United will have money to spend should Pogba leave, they can match Barcelona’s asking price for Rakitic. We take a look at the pros and cons of potentially signing Rakitic.

PROS

The Barcelona star primarily features as a central midfielder, and his versatility would be a major boost for Solskjaer, who will be without Ander Herrera next season.

The former Sevilla star’s passing and composure would add a lot of stability to the midfield, while his ability to test goalkeepers in the final third makes him a big threat as well. He managed a pass success rate of 90.2%, 4.3 long balls and 1.3 shots per game in all competitions this past season.

The right-footed midfielder can aid United in both the attacking and defensive phases of the game.

Rakitic managed 1 tackle, 1.4 interceptions, and 1 aerial duel won per game, which highlights his defensive ability as well. Although he is 31 years old, he has shown no signs of ageing and rarely does he pick up niggling injuries that tend to keep players out.

The Croat has only missed nine games through injury or illness in his five-year stay at the Camp Nou, so far which speaks volumes about his fitness levels.

CONS

The Spanish giants have slapped a price tag of £45 million on the 31-year-old midfielder. Although the Croatian has shown no signs of decline, such a hefty transfer fee for a player entering the twilight of his career doesn’t seem wise.

Not to mention the huge wages the Croatian will demand before penning down a contract at Old Trafford.

The Red Devils direly need a centre-back and arguably a right-winger, so spending a big fee on Rakitic might affect their overall transfer season.

Stat Courtesy: Transfermarkt, Whoscored