Rakitic: I'd like to play with Ronaldo; Being with Messi for 6 yrs is incredible

Barcelona midfielder Ivan Rakitic has been heavily linked with a move away from the Camp Nou in the last two transfer windows, while the Croatian has stated that he would like to play alongside Juventus forward Cristiano Ronaldo.

The Bianconeri are one of the clubs who have been persistently rumoured with a move for Rakitic and he has made clear that he would be in favour of linking up with the Portuguese superstar.

"Of course I would," Rakitic told brfootball when asked if he'd like to play with Cristiano.

"He is also one of the greatest players in history.

"You enjoy watching him play and he's doing well at Juventus."

Rakitic stated earlier in the season that he felt sad with the way that Barcelona handled his potential departure in the summer, yet he understands that it's commonplace in football nowadays.

"It's a part of football," he noted.

"You have to understand that and be ready [to potentially leave] in January.

"You have to be happy, you have to think about your family, and if I play for Barcelona I am happy."

Rakitic has been able to play alongside Lionel Messi for the last six seasons and, in his opinion, the Argentine is the greatest player to have ever played the sport.

"It's amazing to play with him - he's special," Rakitic said of the Barcelona captain.

"There have been great players in every era, but I'm sure he's been the best in the last 15 years.

"In my opinion, I think he's the best of all time.

"Being with him for six years has been incredible."

Neymar was linked with Barcelona return last summer, with Rakitic being one of the players reportedly offered in exchange for the Paris Saint-Germain forward, but he would like to be on the same team as his former teammate once again.

"I'd like to have him on my team, that's clear," Rakitic stated.

"He should decide what's best for him.

"He's a good friend and I want to see him happy."