3 reasons why Manchester United should sign £8m La Liga talent - statistics and video

As David Moyes says his farewells to his Everton staff and prepares for life as Manchester United manager he will surely be drawing up a list of players that he wants in his artilery to ensure the Premier League trophy stays at Old Trafford come the end of his debut season.

1) Versatile

Rakitic has occupied every role in the middle of the pitch. He has been used as a deep-lying playmaker due to his passing abilities and facility to drive forward with the ball at his feet but has also been player in a wider position on the right and in behind the striker. United are desperate to solidify their midfield and signing a player of Rakitic's flexibility could prove to be a very shrewd move for the Red Devils. The 25-year-old has played 31 games this season in various roles.

2) Defence splitting

With Paul Scholes retiring United are without a real creative force in the middle of the pitch. Don't get me wrong, Michael Carrick can pick a pass but it isn't his job to create for the strikers. Should Rakitic arrive at Old Trafford then the likes of Robin van Persie can expect plenty of opportunities fed to him. Rakitic has created 84 chances this season, far more than any Manchester United player.

3) Pocket watch

The Sevilla man keeps things ticking. He knows when to keep things simple, he knows when to get back and help out his backline and he certainly knows when to push on as his seven goals and nine assists suggest. He has a tackle success of 77% which suggests he has impeccable timing and with 857 of his completed passes going forward it also show that he is eager to get the team moving.

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