Tottenham are believed to be interested in a summer move for Barcelona midfielder Ivan Rakitic, according to reports from Spain.
The Croatian has been linked with a move away from the Nou Camp in the past but he could potentially depart this summer due to his contract status.
Rakitic's deal expires at the end of the 2020/21 season and that could mean the Spanish giants part with him in order to recoup some money unless he pens new terms to remain at the club.
The 32-year-old has been in and out of the team this season as he, Arthur and Arturo Vidal are in a battle for the final spot in the three-man midfield.
According to Spanish publication Mundo Deportivo, Jose Mourinho's men are believed to have moved ahead of Inter Milan, Juventus and Atletico Madrid in the race to sign the Croatian international.
Although the Spurs boss does have a number of midfield options to choose from at present, Rakitic would no doubt be of interest to him if he was available going on his previous comments about the player.
Speaking after Rakitic netted the decisive goal in Barcelona's 1-0 win over Real Madrid in March 2019, the 57-year-old waxed lyrical about the talented player.
"‘He’s a fantastic player at every level," said Mourinho (via Manchester Evening News ). "He does the defensive work on the right side to compensate for [Lionel] Messi. He runs miles.
"In ball possession he’s fantastic, he’s simple, he’s effective. He’s one of the most underrated players.
"So I want to finish by saying that because normally we speak about the big names and for me Rakitic [is at that level]."
Opening up on the glowing comments, the ex-Sevilla man stated that Mourinho "is one of the greatest coaches in the world" when asked by GQ.
"It was amazing to hear that," said the Croat. "When I heard it, I said that not even my Dad would not say that.
"He is one of the greatest coaches in the world and gave me a lot of confidence and motivation. I want to see Mourinho in football soon."
