Manchester United and Manchester City will go head to head as they both eye Barcelona midfielder Ivan Rakitic, according to Daily Express.
Barcelona singed Rakitic from Sevilla for £14million in the summer with an aim to make him long term Xavi’s replacement. However, the Croatian has failed to make his name.
With his failure in Barca, he could be moving in the January window and Premier League duo Manchester United and City are already targeting him.
The 26-year-old has been criticized by experts and Barca fans who believe that he is not fitting in the Catalans squad.
Rakitic who has scored four goals in 20 appearances has not been used consistently in the recent weeks. Express have reported that he is planning for a January move.
Manchester United are already eyeing Roma midfielder Kevin Strootman since the summer but has also targeted Rakitic as a backup option.
While the Blue side of Manchester is eyeing him as Frank Lampard’s replacement whose loan contract will expire next month. The former Chelsea midfielder has scored some vital goals for the Citizens.
The Red Devils are planning a £20million bid for the Croation but will have to fight their local rival Manchester City.
Columnist: Simon Oates
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