Mourinho Considering Controversial Barcelona Star To Replace Christian Eriksen, Report Says

Spurs manager Jose Mourinho is considering Barcelona star Ivan Rakitic as a possible replacement for his former midfield ace, Christian Eriksen, a report said.

As Barcelona and newly appointed coach Ronald Koeman begin rebuilding, several Barca stars have been linked to a move away from Camp Nou, including Rakitic. The Croatian star could be one of the players likely to get thrown out in the team’s massive revamping.

However, some have already shown interest in the Barcelona midfield veteran. Tottenham boss Mourinho has his eyes locked on Rakitic for a possible transfer move to the Premier League, Mundo Deportivo reported.

Mourinho is said to be considering a shock move for Rakitic this summer to fill the vacancy left by his star midfielder, Eriksen, in the center of the field. Eriksen left his squad for Serie A giant Inter Milan in January.

Tottenham is expected to compete for Rakitic, according to Sport, though the Spurs have already tried bidding for the midfielder in the past. However, at the time, the Spurs could not afford the asking price for Rakitic.

Barcelona is said to be holding out for a fee of €10 million ($12 million) for Rakitic, who could also be open to joining Mourinho’s side due to being “discarded” by the new Barca manager. He currently has one year left on his Barcelona contract

However, Sevilla may be the frontrunner to land Rakitic. Barcelona is said to be in “open talks” with Sevilla over a potential return of Raktic to the Ramon Sanchez-Pizjuan Stadium this summer, Diario Sport reported.

The 32-year-old became a controversial figure in the current Barca squad due to his rumored desire to return to his homeland and play for Sevilla. But he has consistently expressed his willingness to remain at Camp Nou and extended his stay beyond his current contract, which expires in June 2021.

However, with no progress on a new extension deal, Sevilla could be looking to take advantage and bring him back to Andalucia.

Meanwhile, Mourinho previously said that the Spurs will not be making any massive signings coming into the next Premier League season. But aside from Rakitic, Tottenham is also linked to a transfer move for Real Madrid left-back Sergio Reguilon, who is currently on loan at Sevilla.