5 potential replacements for Ivan Rakitic at Barcelona

Rakitic’s time at Camp Nou is coming to an end and Barcelona will look to replace him immediately

Barcelona have even reported to reduced his asking price in order to ensure the Croatian doesn’t leave for free. Quique Setien doesn’t seem to have him as part of his plans.His contract runs until 2021 and it appears he is keen on running it down. Sevilla and Manchester United are interested in his signature.

Rakitic left Sevilla back in 2014 after establishing himself as one of La Liga’s finest creators, but after a few stellar seasons at Camp Nou. Having already offloaded Arthur in exchange for Juventus’ Miralem Pjanic, Barcelona are keen to continue restructuring their midfield.

Young Riqui Puig is expected to earn more minutes next season after impressing since La Liga’s return, and when you factor in Pjanic and the return of Frenkie de Jong from injury, it’s no wonder there may not be a place for Rakitic going forward.

#5 Ruben Neves

One of the best Portugese defensive midfielders in the world, Neves has speculated a lot of attention ever since his arrival in the Championship Wolverhampton Wanderers. A consistent and reliable box to box midfielder, Neves is known for his quick switch plays with his Portugese  teammate Joao Moutinho. He has a lethal right-foot with the capability to curl from outside the penalty box.

Coming to his defensive side,he ensures a protective cover for defensive line of Conor Coady and Wily Boly while covering up for full backs Matt Doherty and Jony. He has played an extremely important role in the development of his side as a Top 6 Premier League team and perform exceptionally well in the Europa League.

His inclusion in Quique Setien’s side will only be good news, as he could be an ideal  replacement for Ivan Rakitic due to his play-making abilities and the fact that his pace and agility can be an addition to the much flourishing Barcelona side. Neves surely has the potential to be a top class midfielder for La Blaugrana.