Ivan Rakitic told Man United he wants to stay at Barca

Barcelona looked for an exit for Ivan Rakitic in the winter window. There was interest from plenty of sides but it was strongest from Man United and Juventus. Juve did not bid but Man United did - however Rakitic said no. The Croatian wants to stay and thinks under Quique Setien he can get back in the team.

After Carles Alena was loaned to Real Betis, the midfield is less overbooked. Man United were willing to pay 25 million euros plus variables but Rakitic was not injured. He didn't want to go to the Premier League, but Juve may have been tempting enough. The Italians asked about him and wanted to switch a player in return but Barca wanted cold hard cash money. In the end Rakitic, who is comfortable in Barcelona with his family, isn't going anywhere. In the summer things may change.