Rakitic’s game time has been limited by the arrival of Frenkie de Jong, while Ernesto Valverde can call upon the likes of Arturo Vidal, Sergio Busquets and Arthur too.
Manchester United have the finances to put a deal in place for the former Schalke and Sevilla ace, who is under contract at Barcelona until 2021.
And they could do with a talented midfielder with the 31-year-old’s experience, having endured a nightmare start to the season.
United languish 12th in the Premier League and Rakitic might help propel them towards the top six if he arrives at Old Trafford in January.
Talks between United and Barcelona are already said to be underway, though the Red Devils are not the only team in the hunt for his signature.
Ivan Rakitic's stance on leaving Barcelona emerges as Man Utd hold talks over January move (Image: GETTY)
Ivan Rakitic's stance on leaving Barcelona emerges as Man Utd hold talks over January move (Image: GETTY)
Ivan Rakitic's stance on leaving Barcelona emerges as Man Utd hold talks over January move (Image: GETTY)
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Rakitic’s countryman Zvonimir Boban is currently chief football officer at Milan and wants to lure the Basel academy graduate to Italy.
Milan have been in touch with Rakitic’s people and see him as the ideal candidate to shore up the squad new manager Stefano Piolo has inherited.
Milan are yet to make an offer, but their desire to land Rakitic may seriously derail United’s plans for the rapidly approaching January window.
Rakitic’s compatriot Mario Mandzukic, meanwhile, is on United’s wish list ahead of the new year as Solskjaer seeks to recruit a striker.
Express Sport understands United have reached a verbal agreement with 33-year-old Mandzukic, who is surplus to requirements at Juventus and would cost around £10m.