Manchester United 'see hopes of signing Ivan Rakitic end'

Ivan Rakitic has reportedly decided to stay with Barcelona until at least the end of the season.

Earlier this week, it was claimed that the Spanish champions were open to the possibility of the Croatia international leaving the club before the January transfer window closes for business.

Manchester United allegedly made contact on Thursday to determine whether a deal for the 2018 World Cup finalist could be completed ahead of the deadline.

However, according to Diario Sport, the experienced midfielder has decided to stay at Camp Nou until at least this summer's transfer window.

The 31-year-old has made 23 appearances for Barca during the current season but has only started seven times in La Liga having fallen down the pecking order at the club.

United completed a deal for Sporting Lisbon's Bruno Fernandes on Thursday and are still allegedly hopeful of signing a new striker before the deadline, with Odion Ighalo currently being strongly linked with a move.