Ivan Rakitic has now revealed that he will stay at Barcelona this summer despite interest from Spurs and other European clubs.
The Croatian midfielder was entering the final year of his contract and Spurs were reportedly interested in bringing him to North London this summer (Mundo Deportivo).
Jose Mourinho has also been a big fan of the Croatian star and called him ‘one of the most underrated players’ back in 2019 (Football London).
However, the 32-year-old has decided to stay on at Barcelona and could leave on a free transfer next year.
In an interview with Croatian publication Tportal (as reported by Daily Mail), he said: “I spoke to the club 10 or 15 days ago and the conclusion is that I have nothing to talk about because I have a contract until the summer of 2021 with Barcelona and it is the entity I want to be in and play with.
“Furthermore, my wife and my daughters are good in the city. There is no reason to think about other things. I am training well and I am sure that Rakitic will be in Barcelona longer.’
The Daily Mail add that Rakitic was also attracting plenty of interest from Premier League clubs, as well as others around Europe. Manchester United, Juventus, Sevilla, and Atletico Madrid were among the clubs to be linked with Barcelona midfielder.
SpursWeb Opinion
Ivan Rakitic is one of the best midfielders in Europe and it would be a real coup to bring him to Tottenham. However, we are overstacked in central midfielder with the likes of Harry Winks, Gio Lo Celso, and Tanguy Ndombele. I feel as if we need to target a defensive-minded midfielder this summer. Plus, at the age of 32, injuries and fitness would be a concern for Jose Mourinho.
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