However Sevilla midfield maestro Ivan Rakitic certainly did not rule out a potential move in the future.
In November Croatian international Ivan Rakitic refused to sign a new deal at his La Liga outfit – despite admitting he is happy at Sevilla:
“Two weeks ago the club offered me an extension. I feel the confidence of the President and the director of football, while I’m comfortable with everyone at the club. Nonetheless, I prefer to wait and at the moment just want to concentrate on my football, on the derby game against Real Betis this week. I will make the decision when the time is right. But as I said, I’m very happy in Sevilla…”
Rakitic has been in incredible form this season – one of the shining lights in a campaign that has recently kicked into gear for the club.
But his form and dwindling contract is not going unnoticed. We asked whether Manchester United should be keen on a move about a month ago – a prophecy which came true days later.
But they have been joined by long term interested party Liverpool and Chelsea in mutual interest for the 25-year-old – as well as French outfit Paris Saint-Germain.
Valued at £33 million by his club, who drive a notoriously hard bargain, the player is about to enter his prime – and with that in mind is reaching a delicate crossroads in his career – with his next move likely to be the defining switch of his footballing profession.
And with Premier League clubs lurking there is no doubt this is a difficult decision to make.
And yesterday he addressed the elephant in the room if you like, and spoke frankly about discussions over his Sevilla future:
“Currently, there is nothing to say. We have all had a holiday, I have not used the phone at all. We are going to sit down, let us talk and then we will see how we can do it. Everyone knows that I am always at training and in the matches with the greatest desire. I walk around town and those who know me know even a little that I am enjoying it here and that it is the nicest thing to be a part of Sevilla. It has been a very good year, but I want to improve and continue to grow with the team.”
It certainly sounds from his comments that there is a real conflict over the idea of leaving Seville – where he met his wife and they are now settled.
But with the lure of the Premier League and the riches of Paris – it remains to be seen just where he decides to hang his cap at the end of this month.
image: © eslee82
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