Rumour: Liverpool and Chelsea dealt a blow as Sevilla’s Ivan Rakitic is set to sign a new deal

Ivan Rakitic celebrates after scoring during a Spanish league football match Seviila vs Real Betis at the Sanchez Pizjuan stadium in Sevilla

Sevilla’s star playmaker Ivan Rakitic is reportedly set to pen-to-paper and end continuous speculation linking him with Liverpool and Chelsea, according to the Daily Star.

The Croatian international has been one of Sevilla’s best players for a number of seasons, however, his profile has risen this season after his exploits for the Spanish outfit in the Europa League this season.

Rakitic was one of the key men who inspired the club to Europa League success after defeating Benfica in the final last week and his profile has shot up even more since then.

However, Sevilla’s director of football, Monchi, says the Croatian will sign a new contract.

Monchi said: “I’m convinced that he will be at Sevilla for a long time.

“The whirlwind fixture pile-up has delayed his contract renewal, but the club is not in the least bit worried.

“I speak to him every day and I know what he wants.

“He is going to renew his contract, and if he renews it, he’s not then going to leave after a week.

“If he renews it, it’s to stay. I can’t see a scenario with him leaving.”

Rakitic has created 78 chances in La Liga this season – the most of any Sevilla player.