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Ivan Rakitic could reportedly be the fly in the ointment for Liverpool’s Diego Carlos approach

Mathew Nash

Sun 12 April 2020 9:45, UK

Liverpool have been linked with a move for Diego Carlos in recent weeks. in Spain, the Brazilian defender is considered a potentially perfect partner for Virgil van Dijk in defence, with Joel Matip’s injury record and Dejan Lovren’s future concerns. 

The defender carries a €75 million release clause (£65m), but Liverpool would be hoping to secure him for much less and it would certainly be an eye-catching arrival. 

But Liverpool face competition from Barcelona and it appears they might have the edge. 

Ivan Rakitic is surplus to requirements at the Nou Camp. The Croatian, who once told the press of his ‘respect’ for Jurgen Klopphas fallen down the pecking order at Barcelona since the arrival of Frenkie de Jong last summer. 

“I know their coach really well and I really respect him. Playing against his teams (in the Bundesliga), they were perfect in every detail. It’s going to be complicated for us.”

Now, , Barcelona are ready to use Rakitic in any deal for Carlos. The Croatian spent three seasons at the Sanchez Pizjuan stadium and his wife is from Seville. The hope is that Sevilla would relish the chance to bring Rakitic back to Andalusia this summer. 

In doing so, Barcelona would have the advantage over Liverpool and also reduce the cost of any deal, which could prove crucial in these current uncertain financial times. 

Liverpool, it seems, have a tough task on their hands securing the signature of this Brazilian star.