According to a recent report by Mundo Deportivo (via Calciomercato), Juventus are lining up a move for Barcelona midfielder Ivan Rakitic when the transfer reopens in January. The same source has claimed that the Serie A side are prepared to make a move for the Croatia international during the winter transfer period.
Rakitic’s Underwhelming Start To This La Liga Campaign
Rakitic has a shaky start to this campaign after struggling to find form in a Barca shirt over the past couple of months. The 31-year-old has featured in ten matches for Ernesto Valverde’s side this term and has just got one assist to his name across all competitions.
The Croatia international has failed to be inventive with his passes from midfield and has shown a lack of hunger to score goals going forward. His performance levels have fallen considerably this season so a change of scenery might help the player kickstart his career in European football.
Rakitic has lost a yard of pace from his game and is not the same offensive threat as he was a few years ago. At the same time, he has a wealth of experience of playing at the highest level and could be a shrewd acquisition for a team like Juventus.
What Does The 2018 FIFA World Cup Finalist Offer On The Pitch?
Despite his recent struggles, Rakitic is still an excellent passer of the ball and can expertly link-up play with others around him. Even though his goals have dried up this season, the Croat has shown in the past that he can find the back of the net when his team needs him the most.
Should Valverde Part Ways With Rakitic in January?
The Barca playmaker could benefit from making a fresh start in a foreign league before he heads into the twilight years of his playing career. This upcoming winter transfer window will be a perfect opportunity for Rakitic to land a lucrative contract at a big club as his stock has fallen significantly over this calendar year.
The Catalan giants are better off parting ways with the 106-time capped Croatia international. He has not added too much to the Barca midfield this season, so the club will benefit from cashing in on Rakitic and bringing in a fresh face in midfield this winter.
