Barcelona midfielder Ivan Rakitic reportedly pledged his future to the club this week amid interest from Manchester United, Chelsea and Juventus.
The Croatian international has been a huge success since joining the Catalan giants from Sevilla in 2014, making 118 appearances for the club, adding 18 goals and 16 assists to his work.
Having penned a five-year contract on his arrival, it’s evident that the 28-year-old has a big role to play in Barca’s future, and as such, reports in Spain have revealed that he turned down a chance to leave the Nou Camp this summer.
“Ivan said he was not interested in offers from Juventus, Manchester United and Chelsea and Barcelona will offer him a new contract,” Mundo Deportivo reports.
Despite the arrivals of Denis Suarez and Andre Gomes, who add further competition to a midfield that is already brimming with talent and experience, Rakitic will be aiming to continue to play an influential role for the La Liga champions this season.
A move to England or Italy with the teams named would undoubtedly have been flattering, with all three aiming for trophies this year and to dominate in their respective countries and in Europe moving forward.
However, Rakitic will continue to play his part for Luis Enrique’s men, as they have significantly strengthened in key areas this summer to ensure that they are ready to compete on various fronts.