We reviewed in a list, detailed by 'AS', the three names that the Barcelona bosses are juggling as the Croatian's replacement.
Fabián Ruiz (Napoli)
The former Betis is the favorite of Abidal and Planes. Barça has been following him for years and his good performances with his club and the national team have put him on the radar. At 23 years old, he has the whole career ahead of him and he would be a signing not only for the present, but also for the future. A strong negative would be his pricetag.
Rodrigo Bentancur (Juventus)
The Uruguayan is a more affordable footballer than Fabian. He came as a great promise to Juventus from Boca, but has not managed to break into the 'Vecchia Signora'. He's 22 and has a great future, but hasn't been able to get back to his best level. He is said to be too intermittent and usually contributes little in attack despite his good technical quality. He would have a more affordable price than other options.
Saul (Atletico)
The most contrasted footballer of the three. He will turn 25 in a few days and is fully settled in Atletico. He is a player for whom Barcelona even has the right of first refusal, but would have the highest price of the three, which makes the operation difficult because it is not a priority
BONUS: Riqui Puig and Collado
Two of the club's youth players, Riqui Puig and Collado, are also taken into account by the club. Although their characteristics are not so similar to those of Rakitic, signing another player would be a possible halt to their progression.