Ivan Rakitic

[.Cee 50]

The 20-year-old has been one of Croatia’s standouts at EURO 2008 thus far, more than holding his own in a midfield containing the likes of Luka Modric and Niko Kranjcar.

The Schalke playmaker has been pushed out to the right side of midfield by Slaven Bilic, where his technique, vision and link play have attracted significant attention.

Juventus have tagged the former FC Basel man as a potential successor to Czech legend Pavel Nedved, while Internazionale have also expressed an interest.

And now The Sun reports that Chelsea have been checking out the Swiss-born Croat, who is expected to cost around ₤12million.

Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich has been in Austria to watch his native Russia compete in Group D, and will no doubt have kept a close eye Rakitic’s efforts as Croatia topped Group B.

Incoming Blues boss Luiz Felipe Scolari may also get the chance to have a good hard look at the exciting youngster, as his Portugal side could well meet the Vatreni in the semi-finals.

http://www.goal.com/en/Articolo.aspx?ContenutoId=739659

[BlueLion. 21,491]

He would be an interesting one. Young, but has established himself as a regular in a very good Croatia side. Only need to sign him if Lamps leaves, which won't be happening.

[the wes 7,212]

Rakitic would be a good squad player but i think Bentley is better than Ratikic

[chrismada9 1,948]

Good player, but I would prefer it if we tried to sign Ribery tbh