Manchester United have reportedly enquired about the situation of Barcelona midfielder Ivan Rakitic.
Rakitic has been linked with a move away from Camp Nou at the end of the season after talks over a contract extension stalled.
The 30-year-old's agent has ruled out the possibility of his client leaving the Spanish champions this summer, but that has not prevented clubs from keeping tabs on his situation.
Spanish publication Sport reports that Manchester United have now joined Chelsea in the race for Rakitic's signature, having both asked about his availability.
Other European giants such as Juventus, Inter Milan and Bayern Munich are also understood to be monitoring proceedings and could challenge the Premier League duo in a bidding war at the end of the season.
Rakitic remains keen to stay at Camp Nou, but Barca have no intention of offering an extension to his current deal, which expires in 2021.
The Croatia international has made 34 appearances for the club so far this season but may find first-team chances more limited next term when Frenkie de Jong arrives from Ajax.
Barney Corkhill
