Ivan Rakitic's future hots up as PSG declare interest

Ivan Rakitic’s situation has entered a new stage. Barcelona now know first-hand of the interest of PSG in the Croatian midfielder, but they have not yet received an official offer. 

The player is up to date and has not made a decision himself. PSG are expected to make a final offensive in the coming hours. When it happens Barcelona and the player will have to make a difficult and immediate decision.

Rakitic has become one of PSG’s most desired players. The French club believe he’s what’s needed to complete their midfield and see him as a good option given he has a 125 million euro release fee clause. While PSG wouldn’t reach that figure, they would go close to it.

Barcelona do not want to sell Rakitic but they know his opinion is important too. In any case they have told him they will not increase his salary. Rakitic renewed his deal in 2021. If the Croatian decides to stay it will be for sporting reasons.

Rakitic would like to stay. He is happy in Barcelona with his family and feels an important part of the team. He’s a starter, indisputably, and has hit his best form at Barcelona. However if PSG offer to double his salary, doubts appear.

Similarly, if PSG make a huge offer for a player past 30, Barcelona would have to think. It’s not an easy panorama, less so when you consider the relations between the two clubs. Barca are not happy with PSG stealing Neymar or refusing to negotiate over Verratti or Rabiot. There is a lot of tension but a huge fee would be important for the present and future of Barcelona.

The important thing is that if it happens, it happens quickly, so Barca can react on the transfer market.