Ivan Rakitic is reportedly set to join Saudi Arabia club Al-Shabab despite rumors that Inter Miami were interested in the Sevilla star.
The former FC Barcelona midfielder has emerged as one of many names linked with a move to Florida, with Philippe Coutinho the current flavor of the week in the transfer media.
Yet Rakitic was another player who seemed like a realistic option for Inter Miami, with the veteran playmaker expected to leave Sevilla at the end of this season.
However, according to the Athletic, Rakitic is now in talks to leave the La Liga giants for Saudi Arabian side Al-Shabab, who also have the likes of Yannick Carrasco and Romain Saiss on their books.
With Inter Miami recently losing midfielder Benjamin Cremaschi to injury, Rakitic could have been an ideal short-term signing for the Herons heading into the start of the MLS season.
However, it now appears that the financial allure of Saudi Arabia has once again come out on top, with Rakitic set to join Al-Shabab in the coming days.
Ivan Rakitic joining Al-Shabab could be a blessing for Inter Miami
There’s no denying that Inter Miami still need some work in the midfield if they’re to become a true threat for every club in MLS heading into the 2024 season.
Yet whilst Rakitic would have been a quality addition on a technical level, the Croatian international is still missing what Inter Miami are missing greatly in the midfield.
Indeed, the Herons are in need of an energetic player who is willing to do the running Sergio Busquets doesn’t have the legs to do anymore at this stage in his career.
Moreover, with four superstars on their books, Inter Miami need to start acting smart in the transfer market and begin looking for hidden gems who could add real value at a cheap cost.