PSG midfielder Adrien Rabiot is reportedly subject of interest from Arsenal and AC Milan, but he wants a move to Barcelona this summer.
Calciomercato are reporting that AC Milan are eyeing a making a move for wantaway PSG midfielder, Adrien Rabiot. The report suggests that the Rossoneri want to bring the Frenchman to San Siro, after landing Gonzalo Higuain and Mattia Caldara from Juventus. But, they face competition from Arsenal and Barcelona, with the latter being the favourites to sign him.
AC Milan’s new Director of Football, Leonardo, has been a busy man trying to make some deals happen before the start of the new season. As part of the process to make Milan a more competitive side, Leonardo hopes to bring the Frenchman and bolster their squad. But, Rabiot reportedly has his heart set on a move to Barcelona.
With his current contract expiring in the summer of 2019, PSG are looking to offload the midfielder while they can rather than lose him on a free transfer next summer. The lack of progress over a renewal between the club and Rabiot has attracted interest from many clubs including Arsenal, Juventus and Barcelona.
While the Gunners and their former boss, Arsene Wenger had long been interested in bringing the midfielder to London, it’s Barcelona who were close to capturing him recently. But, Arsenal remain keen on a transfer and are weighing up a swoop as well.
Barcelona are in the market looking for talented midfielders to fill the void left by Andres Iniesta and Paulinho. Thus, a move for Rabiot makes sense for the Blaugrana. However, the interest from Barcelona seems to have cooled off in recent days, with other suitors eyeing up a move now.
Milan, taking notice of the situation have reportedly made a substantial step forward to bring Rabiot to San Siro. It’s also been reported that Leonardo has already spoken with Rabiot’s mother and agent about the possibility of a move.
Rabiot, in the last few seasons, has established himself as a firm starter for PSG and featured 50 times across all competitions last season. Since he broke into the first-team setup he has played more than 200 times for Les Parisiens. But, owing to his current situation, a somewhat tricky one, he looks all set to leave the French team.
Reports have suggested that Rabiot wants a new, bumper deal at the club as well as assurances over his playing position. He aspires to play in an advanced, No. 8 role than the No. 6 role he’s currently occupying. PSG had earlier refused to budge on the demands and made it clear that he would not be sold at any costs, but could well have to accept the highest bid for him.
Barcelona could yet move for the 23-year-old Frenchman, as they could revive their negotiations with PSG in the coming days. A move for Rabiot to San Siro could be in serious doubt as the player himself prefers to play for Barcelona, and has already reportedly ignored the overtures of other clubs including Arsenal.
It remains to be seen how much PSG will demand for their wantaway midfielder and if Barca will be willing to pay that amount. As for Milan and Arsenal, they have tried, but Barcelona can offer him Champions League football as well as more competition, which could enable him to be selected for his national side more often.
