rak it up

Bayern Munich’s pursuit of Ivan Rakitic could have a huge impact on Paul Pogba’s future

Croatian midfielder has also attracted interest from Paris Saint-Germain and Monaco after his heroics at the World Cup

Gossip

By Joe Miles

11th August 2018, 12:09 pm

Updated: 11th August 2018, 3:11 pm

BAYERN MUNICH have joined the race to sign Barcelona star Ivan Rakitic, according to reports.

The La Liga side could cash in on the Croatian this summer to fund a move for Manchester United star Paul Pogba.

According to Mundo Deportivo, Bayern have approached Rakitic and are ready to offer him an incredible contract.

New club boss Niko Kovac, who was capped 83 times for Croatia, believes that the 30-year-old would slot straight into his midfield.

French giants PSG were reportedly preparing to launch a sensational £112million bid for Rakitic.

Monaco have also been monitoring the midfielder, who is under contract in Spain until 2019.

Ernesto Valverde will not be looking to let Rakitic leave unless a club activates his £112million release clause.

The 30-year-old was the most used player in Barcelona’s squad last season and he was in fine form at the World Cup.

If Rakitic decides to leave, the Spanish side could step up their pursuit for French midfielder Pogba.

The World Cup winner has been continuously linked with a move to Spain this summer, but Barca are yet to file an official offer.

The midfielder fuelled speculation that he could leave when he took a cheeky swipe at Jose Mourinho following Friday’s 2-1 win over Leicester.

But he also stated that he wants to win multiple trophies – including the Premier League.

His agent, Mino Raiola, is trying to force through a move before the end of the month.