Manchester United will have to spend €60 million if they are to acquire the services of Inter Milan’s Ivan Perisic
According to Italian media outlet Gazzetta dello Sport, Manchester United are prepared to shell out €60 million in order to acquire the services of Crotian attacking sensation Ivan Perisic in the summer.
Red Devils manager Jose Mourinho is known to be a huge fan of the player, and is keen to bring him to Old Trafford this summer. There were also reports that the Portuguese met with the 28-year-old’s representatives, discussing a deal in the summer.
United have an embarrassment of riches at the club, but the numerous injuries this season, may see Mourinho look for reinforcements. He has also offloaded Memphis Depay in January, freeing up some squad space for another attacking player.
Anthony Martial too, appears to be disgruntled with life at Manchester United and could look for an exit in the summer. The Frenchman has been complaining to his agent and family about his lack of playing time at the Old Trafford outfit.
Thus, the interest in a player of Perisic’s calibre comes as no real surprise from Manchester United. The 28-year-old is extremely versatile and can play in all three attacking positions behind the striker.
He predominantly prefers to play on the left flank, and could be an upgrade to Martial. Marcus Rashford is expected to operate more centrally in the forseeable future, and the left wing berth could be given to the Croatian.
However, Inter have stated that the player is not for sale, and will play hardball to let go of their prized asset. But, if they fail to qualify for the Champions League, it will be extremely difficult to keep hold of the player.
Even United’s participation in the tournament is uncertain as they are now hoping to win the Europa League to qualify for the Champions League. They are fighting a losing battle in the race to secure a top four berth in the Premier League.
If they fail to qualify, Perisic has other alternatives as well. The likes of Liverpool and Arsenal are also reportedly interested in his services, and could offer him an escape route from the San Siro along with the Champions League.