Chelsea to launch transfer bid for Barcelona star Ivan Rakitic after Frenkie De Jong signing

The Croatian midfielder could be forced to look for a new club when £65 million signing Frenkie De Jong arrives at the Nou Camp at the end of the season.

According to SPORT, Maurizio Sarri's side are closely monitoring the 30-year-old's situation in Spain.

The Blues boss is keen to bolster his midfield and find a replacement for Cesc Fabregas, who joined Monaco this month.

Rakitic appears to fit the bill, but he is under contract with Ernesto Valverde's side until 2021.

And the 101-cap Croatia international has confirmed his intentions to renew his deal with the La Liga champions.

When asked about his future, he said: "If I am here [at Barcelona], it's to play. If anything has to change, we will speak.

"I want to be here and, if I can renew, to be here for even more years.

"I am really happy here, everyone knows it, above all the president. I have nothing else to say.

"I am 30 and I am in the best moment of my career. I want to enjoy football and enjoy Barca."

When questioned if De Jong's arrival could force him out of the squad, he said: "That's a good question for the 'Mister' [manager]."

Rakitic has played for Barcelona since he joined from Sevilla in 2014 and he has won three La Liga titles, four Copa del Rey titles and the Champions League.

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