Ivan Rakitic: Atletico willing to pay Barça’s €40m price

Ivan Rakitic has continuously spoken on his feelings about being left out of Barcelona’s first team and having to play second fiddle, despite still having a lot to offer.

The midfielder has been demoted to Ernesto Valverde’s team B, with new signing Frenkie De Jong taking a more consistent role since his arriving in the summer.

In a recent interview, Ivan Rakitic poured his heart out on his status at the Camp Nou. The midfielder explaining that he was only 31, and still enjoys playing football, insisting he still has a lot to offer but would respect the decisions of the Coach.

“I understand and respect the decisions of a Coach, but I think I have given everything during these five and a half years that I have been here and what I want is to continue enjoying my football,” he told the Universo Valdano program.

“I enjoy playing. I trust my football. I’m 31, I’m not 38. I feel at my best, I think last year was the best year of my career when I wanted to enjoy myself the most.

“It was after the World Cup, last season was the best for me because I was at my best and I’m working harder than ever. I’ve also set up a gym in my house and I’m crazy about the details. I love football.”

According to a report in Marca, the club has agreed with the Croatian midfielder on a January transfer, despite his current contract at Barcelona running till 2021.

Manchester United and Inter Milan are among clubs being linked with securing a winter move for the midfielder. But according to reports, La Liga rivals Atletico Madrid would be willing to pay up the bills to sign Ivan Rakitic.

Rakitic is valued at €40 million by the Catalan club, who are now reportedly set to receive an offer from Atletico Madrid. However, it remains to be seen, if Barcelona would be willing to let the midfielder leave for Madrid, as that would strengthen a rival in the process.