Lionel Messi concerned about losing key player to Manchester United

Lionel Messi seems to hold it all together at Barcelona whenever there’s a slight sense of upheaval.

By upheaval, we’re talking unhappiness and players wanting out. The latest name to hit the Barcelona exit headlines is Croatia international Ivan Rakitic, who, according to Spanish outlet Don Balon, has not ruled out a move to either Manchester United, Bayern Munich or Juventus.

The report also suggests Messi is concerned about losing a key teammate with the Argentine viewing Rakitic as an ‘essential’ part of the current Barcelona squad.

Jose Mourinho is looking to strengthen his midfielder with a dossier of targets written up, as per Manchester Evening News, which lead to Rakitic’s name being linked with a move to Old Trafford.

Marouane Fellaini is approaching the end of his contract and Michael Carrick is set to retire, therefore, Mourinho will need to act quick if he wants to get targets in prior to this summer’s World Cup.

During Rakitic’s time at Barcelona, the Croation has won two La Liga titles (with a third surely to follow this season), four Copa del Rey, a Champions League, UEFA Super Cup and Club World Cup.

That would bring an incredible amount of experience to the Old Trafford dressing room. One desperate for success.

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