Inter Milan still showing interest in Barcelona midfielder Ivan Rakitić

SEVILLE, SPAIN - MARCH 17: Ivan Rakitic of FC Barcelona reacts during the La Liga match between Real Betis Balompie and FC Barcelona at Estadio Benito Villamarin on March 17, 2019 in Seville, Spain. (Photo by Aitor Alcalde/Getty Images)
SEVILLE, SPAIN - MARCH 17: Ivan Rakitic of FC Barcelona reacts during the La Liga match between Real Betis Balompie and FC Barcelona at Estadio Benito Villamarin on March 17, 2019 in Seville, Spain. (Photo by Aitor Alcalde/Getty Images)

Ivan Rakitić’s situation at Barcelona has not changed too much

Ivan Rakitić has made his position clear regarding his future. He wants to stay at Barcelona. But the club are still yet to commence negotiations over a new contract for the World Cup finalist, and his form has been quite inconsistent recently.

Inter Milan had shown interest in Rakitić after Barça had turned down his request for a new deal despite enjoying a period of amazing form. But the Croatian midfielder rebuffed Inter’s approaches and reaffirmed his commitment to the club.

But Rakitić’s has taken quite a dip since then. He has been regularly outperformed by Arturo Vidal, and Arthur’s growth has compelled Ernesto Valverde to relegate him to the bench on a few occasions. Taking note, the Nerazzurri are still retaining interest in Rakitić.

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Inter will formulate their transfer strategy for the summer in a meeting next week, which is to be attended by CEO Beppe Marotta, sporting director Piero Ausilio, head of football Giovanni Gardini and manager Luciano Spalletti.

Among a host of players to be considered, Ivan Rakitić’s name will also come up. But Inter are still unlikely to break the bank for a 31-year old player, and Barça are going to ask for a big fee. So, the club should not worry about Rakitić leaving the club.

Still, Barça should consider a sale if Paris Saint-Germain come back in with their previous €90 million offer, although it looks highly unlikely at this point. But the club does need to offer Rakitić a new deal to prevent him from becoming unhappy.