Premier League rivals Chelsea and Manchester United are said to be increasingly confident of their chances of signing Barcelona midfielder Ivan Rakitic, according to a report today.
Croatia international Rakitic has established himself as one of Europes top midfield operators since moving to the Nou Camp from Sevilla in 2014.
The Switzerland born 30-year-old came close to joining PSG earlier this summer, but he eventually chose to stay in Spain with La Liga Champions, Barca.
However, according to a report on Tribal Football today, both Chelsea and Manchester United have been encouraged by the fact Barca seem to be unwilling to offer the talented midfielder improved financial terms on his current deal that runs until 2021.
Both Premier League clubs are known to be actively seeking to improve their midfield options and hold a long-term interest in bring the Croatian to England.