Whilst he was once considered the heir to Andres Iniesta's dynasty at Barcelona, it now looks like Ivan Rakitic is going to be n the move - perhaps with Coutinho finally being given the chance to impress in the advanced midfielder role that Iniesta made his own.
The Croatian attacker has been linked to both Manchester United and Bayern Munich in the past few weeks with different speculation about the transfer coming from his homeland too.
Whilst there have been hitches along the way (and it appears that the transfer of the player has hit another roadblock according to reports from England), no one has questioned Rakitic's talent or potential. Fans who are keen to back him to play for United should get the Coral promo code for 2019, as it gives much better odds than the ones currently available in the market.
It is understood that the latest sticking point is that Barcelona are demanding a transfer fee in excess of £50 million for the Croatia international, with Manchester United wanting to pay a lower initial fee, boosted by various performance-based add-ons. Barcelona are reportedly sticking with their valuation of the defender.
Rakitic is thought to be interested in making a move to the club and recently gave an interview that suggested that a move could be on the cards.
Rakitic is regarded as a quality midfielder and formed midfield triumvarte with Sergio Busquet and Andreas Iniesta when Barcelona won the treble in 2015. Comfortable on the ball and excellent aerially, he would be expected to provide quality to the midfield next season.
Manchester United are thought to be looking at alternatives with the likes of Bruno Fernandes and Christian Eriksen linked to the club. However Rakitic is regarded as a sure bet in the midfield and would form a good partnership with Paul Pogab and Nemanja Matic.
The Croatian international was a key figure for Barcelona last season despite criticisms from a section of fans.
Manchester United are having a busy time with things, with reports that the club are in a two way battle with Manchester City for Leicester City midfielder Harry Maguire. The departure of captain Vincent Kompany means that the Manchester City are light in defence and Maguire is seen as a player that could fill that role.
However, Maguire would also be a good signing for Manchester United who have needed a ball-winning, tough-tackling centre-back ever since Nemanja Vidic stepped aside all those years ago.
It remains to be seen how both deals will develop in the coming days, but sources in Manchester say that United could effectively resolve two weak areas of the team within the next few days.