Inter Milan are reportedly ready to make a late push to sign Barcelona midfielder Ivan Rakitic, whose future at Camp Nou remains uncertain.
Inter Milan have invested in their squad quite sensibly so far, and they don’t seem to be done with their business yet. According to Sport, Inter Milan are retaining an interest in Ivan Rakitic and are ready to launch a late move to sign the Croat from Barcelona before the transfer window closes.
Rakitic’s future has been the subject of speculation as Barcelona remain active in the window for further recruits. They are in pursuit of Neymar, whose speculated return to Barcelona from PSG could have direct implications on Rakitic’s future at the club. Despite Neymar and Rakitic playing in different positions, the transfer of one could change the scenario for the other.
Barcelona are looking to include Rakitic as part of the deal with PSG to sign Neymar. While the French champions have been admirers of the Croat, it remains to be seen if they would want Rakitic now. While the midfielder dismissed speculation about an exit earlier in the summer, Barcelona’s summer business might have prompted a change in that stance.
The Blaugrana have seemed ready to cash in on the midfielder for some time now. There were rumours of Manchester United wanting him to replace Paul Pogba. With the English window now shut, such a move is no longer possible. Inter Milan though, are keeping tabs on his situation and could make an offer to Barcelona if the Catalans fail in their pursuit of Neymar by using Rakitic as a makeweight.
Inter Milan manager Antonio Conte would be pleased with his club’s transfer business so far and has expressed an interest in signing Rakitic. Conte wants to complement his new-look attack with an experienced and reputed midfielder, making Rakitic a viable target. Inter recently signed Romelu Lukaku from Manchester United and Rakitic’s signing would conclude the window splendidly.
However, the trouble could be the price Barcelona are set to demand for Rakitic. Currently, the Spanish champions are commanding €50 million for the 31-year-old, and this could price Inter out of a move. But, Conte is reportedly adamant that Inter Milan should make the move happen. But, the Nerazzurri might have to balance the books before bringing the Croatian midfielder in.
Ivan Perisic is reportedly close to joining Bayern Munich in the coming days. Perisic’s move could significantly free up Inter’s wage bill, thus making room for Rakitic. Inter are ready to pay more than what he earns currently. It could be the last significant contract of Rakitic’s career and could thus, steer him towards San Siro.
The coming days will be significant for Barcelona, Inter Milan and Rakitic’s future. If Neymar does make a move, then selling Rakitic at a reasonable price would help Barcelona to balance their own books. Inter are showing ambition in the market and signing Rakitic would definitely signal an intent from Conte to the club’s rivals for the coming season.
