There is a very tense atmosphere brewing in the Football Transfer Tavern after The Express revealed that Manchester United and Manchester City are battling it out for Barcelona midfielder Ivan Rakitic.

The Croatian midfielder only arrived at the Camp Nou this summer from Sevilla for around £14 million.

But he has failed to impress Luis Enrique and it is reported that the two English heavyweights are preparing £20 million offers in January.

Despite having made 20 appearances for Barca, fans and critics doubt that he has the attributes to keep up with Barcelona’s brand of pass and move attacking football.

He is supposedly seeking a move to the Premier League as he is frustrated at being behind Xavi in the midfield pecking order.

Although things have not worked out, the 26-year-old has bags of ability and is versatile playing as an attacking midfielder for Sevilla and then as a defensive midfielder for Croatia during the World Cup.

The Red Devils see him as an alternative to Kevin Strootman who seems to be staying at Roma whilst Manuel Pellegrini is looking for someone to replace the ageing Frank Lampard for next season.

Manchester City and Manchester United fans. Do you think you will be able to capture Rakitic and is he the sort of talent you are looking for? Let us know your thoughts below.

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