Rakitic and Coutinho find themselves on the exit ramp at Barcelona
The club hope the duo can bring in a good amount of cash this summer
Barcelona are busy at the moment trying to close exits for certain players. One of the club's weak points in recent years seems to have been overcome and sales are providing a good source of income. Two names are on the table in this sense: Ivan Rakitic and Philippe Coutinho.
The club feel the duo provide a great chance to make some money this summer. They are experienced players who appeal to Europe's biggest clubs.
Midfield excess
The excess of players in midfield is evident and a departure would not have a traumatic effect. The signing of De Jong, Arthur moving into his second year and the consolidation of Carles Aleña and Riqui Puig means Rakitic can leave, especially when experience is covered by Busquets and Arturo Vidal.
The valuation of Coutinho and Rakitic is high. The Brazilian especially so, as he cost 150 million euros and is younger, at 27. Barça want 100 million for him and PSG are the most likely suitor as things stand. He could be a part of Operation Neymar. His agent, Kia Joorabchian, has looked to the English market but has found the door shut. There is the added handicap in England that the transfer window shuts on August 8.
Rakitic's reputation
The market is much more flexible for Rakitic. The player still has a good reputation, despite being 31. There are many teams in England and Italy keen on him. Manchester United, for example, are interested.
Barça could get around 50 million for a player that only has two years left on his deal. Last season, his price rose after a great World Cup. PSG offered 90 million, but Ernesto Valverde didn't want him to go.
