By Dave Marshall
Arguably the longest transfer saga of the summer, Manchester United have failed in several attempts to sign Croatian international and Inter Milan wingers Ivan Perisic. While the Red Devils appeared to have given up the ghost in the chase for the attacker, latest reports have indicated that we are giving it a last shot.
Jose Mourinho has been looking to transition his team to an attacking side that utilizes the wings and he has identified Perisic as a perfect fit to match that ambition. Despite offers for the star, Inter Milan have held on to their £48 million valuation of attacker, with United willing to fork out only £39 million for his services.
The prospect of Perisic joining Manchester United was high before the start of the season but on his return from their pre-season tour in China, the San Siro giants continued to play hardball over his valuation – they asked that Anthony Martial be included in a loan swap deal for Perisic which turned off the Red Devils, Football Italia report.
Nonetheless, the Express claims that the executive vice chairman of Man United Ed Woodward has held talks with Perisic’s agent, Fali Ramadani so as to push through a deal. The report further stated that Ramadani has returned to Italy, where he’s being expected to sort out the future of the 28-year-old, with the hopes that he could be allowed to join United.
Jose Mourinho has already bolstered his squad with three top-notch players but he could do with an attacker in the mold of Perisic. He had an impressive campaign last season where score 11 League goals and provided 8 assist, and he can play in any of the front three positions.
While Chelsea are lurking for his signature, Man United are in pole position to sign the star.