Ivan Rakitic has shot down rumors that the Croatian international could be heading to Inter Miami in 2024.
Taking to Instagram via AS, the Sevilla midfielder sarcastically replied to a post claiming that the veteran playmaker will be heading to Florida next year when his contract with the La Liga side expires.
Rakitic jokingly wrote: “It could happen, but I think he will stay here, there is meant to be a verbal agreement on a 2-year contract renewal let’s see what happens, hopefully our Croatian stays.”
With Luis Suarez reportedly set to join Inter Miami in January, it would make sense why Rakitic is now not heading to the MLS franchise given the salary restrictions the Herons would have over a potential deal.
The former FC Barcelona star would be one of the highest-paid players in the division if Inter Miami were to pursue a transfer for the veteran La Liga superstar.
Indeed, Rakitic would have been a fantastic signing for Tata Martino’s side, yet this looks to be one transfer that has once again slipped through Inter Miami’s fingers.
Rakitic was always going to be an optimistic signing for Inter Miami
With Suarez en-route to Inter Miami, signing another superstar name was always going to be quite the overstep from the Herons in January.
And Rakitic would have been just that, with the midfielder still one of the best in his position in Europe despite entering the twilight of his career.
Inter Miami have already been caught twisting the salary cap rules in MLS, and the Florida franchise simply can’t afford to risk something like that again with Rakitic.
As a result, the Herons will have to move on to another midfield target who could fit around their financial restrictions, which could be easier said than done.