Ivan Rakitic could be on his way out of Barcelona, with the Croat reportedly in talks with Manchester United and Juventus over a possible summer move

According to a report by Spanish outlet Don Balon, Ivan Rakitic is a highly sought-after player heading into the summer transfer window. The Barcelona midfielder is the subject of interest from Manchester United and Juventus, who are in talks with him over a potential move.

Rakitic has established himself as one of the most enterprising midfielders in the world, since joining Barcelona from Sevilla in the summer of 2014. Over the last four seasons, the player has been a figure of consistency, and has been a regular fixture for the Blaugrana, with no player appearing more times than him this term.

Featuring in Ernesto Valverde’s side whenever fit and available, it goes without saying that Rakitic is a pivotal figure for Barcelona. But, his future at Camp Nou has become increasingly uncertain in recent months, which has piqued the interest of Manchester United, who have now been joined by Juventus as well.

Will it be Juventus or Manchester United for Rakitic? (Photo courtesy - Javier Soriano/AFP/Getty Images)
Will it be Juventus or Manchester United for Rakitic? (Photo courtesy – Javier Soriano/AFP/Getty Images)

Manchester United are preparing for the departure of Michael Carrick, who is set to retire at the end of the season, notwithstanding Marouane Fellaini’s future being uncertain as well. In particular, Carrick will leave a creative void in the middle of the park that will be hard to replace, which is where Rakitic comes in.

In addition to the creative impetus he will provide in midfield, the Barcelona superstar will also enable Paul Pogba to get the freedom to flourish in advanced positions. But, Manchester United have now been joined by Juventus in pursuit of the Croatian international.

The Bianconeri could lose Sami Khedira and Claudio Marchisio in the summer. If not, the duo are on the wrong side of 30 and need replacing, whether short or long-term. Juventus have been linked heavily with Emre Can, but Rakitic would certainly be an upgrade over the German, making him a viable target, who will complement the abilities of Miralem Pjanic and Blaise Matuidi well.

Both Manchester United and Juventus are already in talks with Rakitic, whose uncertain future has put Luis Suarez and Lionel Messi on alert. The player is tempted by the prospect of leaving Barcelona for either side as well, considering both the clubs will pay the big bucks for him and hand him his last big contract.

All signs currently point towards Rakitic moving away from Barcelona this summer, although the club is likely to be unwilling to part ways with him. It now remains to be seen which way he heads off to, with Manchester United and Juventus set to go head-to-head in his pursuit.

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