After 6 years in the French Capital, it finally appears time for Adrien Rabiot to move to pastures new, with England the most likely destination.
Paris Saint Germain have been locked in protracted contract negotiations with the entourage of Rabiot for some time now, yet still, both sides have failed to reach a concrete agreement. The Frenchman’s current deal expires at the beginning of next summer. If he did decide to move he would have a long list of potential suitors, particularly at a cut-price deal.
At 23 years of age Rabiot still has his best years ahead of him, however, he is viewed by many as a promising midfielder with a very high ceiling rather than a proven star. His frustration at failing to break into the eventual World Cup winning French National squad highlighted this.
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His recent lack of progression undoubtedly played into the decision to turn down PSG’s latest contract offering (for the third time). Although the French club have enjoyed domestic success in recent years they have failed to make any lasting impression on the Champions League. Some have argued that the lack of intensity in Ligue 1 causes complacency and general performance dips on Europe’s biggest stage. Rabiot may feel that his development has plateaued in the French Capital; a move away appears imminent.
So which clubs would be interested in acquiring the gifted Frenchman? Pep Guardiola missed out on a midfielder in the Summer and Rabiot would certainly fit the profile at Manchester City.
Arsenal could be a potential destination; Unai Emery has a strong relationship with Rabiot. With midfielder Aaron Ramsey perhaps looking for a way out of the Emirates, the skilful Frenchman may just be the ideal replacement.
Chelsea have had a long-standing interest in the player but the arrivals of Mateo Kovačić and Jorginho seem to have counted them out of the running this time.
Liverpool are also well stocked in midfield, but they could use the dynamism and goalscoring ability Rabiot offers. Rabiot claimed to be a boyhood Liverpool fan in a recent interview, Jürgen Klopp will be aware of his situation
Barcelona have been linked in the past, however the summer additions of central midfielders Arthur from Grêmio and Arturo Vidal from Bayern Munich have lessened the likelihood of such a move. Juventus have a history of attracting talented players on free transfers so they cannot be ruled out as a potential destination.
Ultimately Rabiot needs a move away to re-energize his career and allow him to grow into the footballer many thought he would become when he burst on the scene as a 19-year-old.