5 midfielders who could replace Ivan Rakitic at Barcelona 

3. Stefano Sensi

Stefano Sensi was Inter's Milan best performer this season before his troubles with multiple injuries

24-year-old midfielder Stefano Sensi has been lauded as Inter Milan and Italy’s present and future because of his immense potential and gifted technique. An almost exact replica of compatriot Marco Verratti, Sensi is equipped with an impeccable passing range, balance and a low centre of gravity which makes him extremely effective. Comparisons with the Paris Saint-Germain star have been rife throughout Sensi’s career, also because of their similarly diminutive sizes.

Sensi was signed by Antonio Conte on loan with a €25 million option to purchase at the beginning of the current season after he greatly impressed at fellow Serie A outfit Sassuolo. The dynamic midfielder is not shy of playing any role in a central trident, be it in front of the back four, as a deep-lying distributor or as a more advanced creator. His brilliant distribution, ball control, unmatched mobility and press resistance make him one of the most important players in Conte’s team.

Sensi operates as the central pivot to the team, pumping out passes whilst also maintaining the defensive shape. He is excellent between the lines and apart from passing his way out, he can also take on an opponent himself. Italy boss Roberto Mancini was quick to recognise Sensi’s talents as he called him up for their Euro 2020 qualifying excursions earlier this season but multiple injury problems have plagued his season since.

Barcelona will have a real player on their hands if they are to lure Stefano Sensi out of the San Siro. With his prime footballing years still way ahead of him, the Italian could epitomise his playing style with the Spanish giants.