Ivan Rakitic is having a formidable season with Sevilla this campaign, whose record is up there with some of the top players in La Liga.
The Croatian midfielder was the first player to reach double figures in both the scorers and assists charts this season, something that has only since been achieved by two other players – Gareth Bale and Lionel Messi.
Rakitic was on the mark once again in his side’s convincing 4-1 win over Real Valladolid on Sunday, scoring from the spot for his 11th goal of the season. Liverpool were pursuing Rakitic last summer and are believed to be considering a new bid when the current season ends. Rakitic is also wanted by Diego Simeone at Atletico Madrid. Sevilla are trying their utmost to tie down the Croatian to a long-term deal but it seems as though the player is unwilling to continue commit to the Andalusian club. Rakitic’s current deal runs out in 2015 and should he decide not to renew his contract in the summer, Sevilla will be obligated to sell him or risk losing him on a free transfer the following year.