5 midfielders who could replace Ivan Rakitic at Barcelona 

1. Saul Niguez

Saul Niguez produced a Man of the Match performance against Champions League holders Liverpool

Atletico Madrid star Saul Niguez is perhaps the most ideal replacement for Rakitic in the Barcelona midfield. The Spaniard, despite being just 25, is a highly experienced and mature player who is not only Diego Simeone’s most valuable player but has also performed on Europe’s biggest stages.

Saul is a textbook Barcelona player, especially because of his clever play, tactical awareness and brilliant technique. Often labelled as a “complete” midfielder, he can pretty much slot in at every position in the centre of the pitch, acting as a destroyer or creator. For Simeone’s side, Saul players a more pragmatic game with his high level of pressing and work rate, however, spectators can still witness him weaving his magic with the ball. In the Spanish national team, however, he transforms into a pass maestro who dictates play and acts as a focal point for his teammates.

But Saul’s most incredible ability is to work in spaces. Despite not being the quickest, he can not only get out of tight spots but also pick up positions behind the opposition midfield and turn them into goalscoring chances.

Barcelona will surely be looking at bringing Saul to the Camp Nou, who is almost tailor-made for their possession-based style of play. However, luring him from direct title rivals Atletico Madrid will not be the easiest of tasks. But if Bartomeu and co are ready to splash the cash on Atletico Madrid's deputy captain, he will not only be a long-term successor to Ivan Rakitic but could also cement himself one of the best midfielders in the world.