Barcelona midfielder Ivan Rakitic is reportedly in touch with both the Manchester clubs according to a report by The Express. Although Rakitic has been a regular under Ernesto Valverde, there is increased competition for midfield places. Rakitic has been reportedly in touch with both Pep Guardiola and Jose Mourinho over a summer move. Rakitic had an underwhelming season last year under Luis Enrique but has rediscovered his form this year under Valverde. At 29, the Croatian still has a few year left at the top so he might be tempted to move for a last big money contract.
Manchester City have a plethora of options in the middle of the park but United need reinforcements in the summer. With Michael Carrick set to retire and Fellaini’s contract situation still not resolved, United need to buy central midfielders. The defeat against Spurs showed that United need to shield their defence better and Paul Pogba can’t be entrusted to play as a defensive midfielder.