Inter Milan winger Ivan Perisic has reportedly made his intention to leave the club clear by handing in a transfer request. This is believed to be as a result of a bid submitted by Arsenal to secure the service of the Croatian star.
Perisic was on the radar of the Gunner's Premier League rivals Manchester United during Jose Mourinho's stint but the Nerazzurri was reluctant to part ways with the attacker. The 29-year-old forward subsequently signed a contract extension, ending any speculated move.
However, the player's desire to play in the English top-flight league has apparently been rekindled once again. As per the BBC's David Ornstein, Arsenal has tested Inter Milan's resolve with a loan offer for the Croatian attacker plus an option to buy for £35 million at the end of the season. The status of the offer is in line with Unai Emery's admission that Arsenal can only sign players on loan in this winter transfer window due to the lack of funds.
Arsenal have made an approach to sign Inter Milan winger Ivan Perisic. #AFC want loan with £35m option to buy. 29yo open to #Inter exit. Fits plan of versatile midfielder e.g. Suarez (still possible) / Nkunku + winger. Unclear if injuries mean defender wanted but Sokratis not bad
— David Ornstein (@bbcsport_david) January 26, 2019
That withstanding, while Perisic is believed to be interested in the move, Inter Milan could finally sign off on his sale with head coach Luciano Spalletti confirming that he is no longer off the market. Despite impressing last season, the 29-year-old winger is yet to find his form this season. He has managed just three goals and five assists in 25 appearances this season.
"We are talking about Perisic because he has interest from other teams and everyone would like to have him on his team," Spalletti told the press on Saturday ahead of Sunday's Serie A encounter with Torino.
"If anyone is interested in him, then they must pay the adequate sum."
With the transfer window approaching its end, Arsenal will hope to quickly secure the service of Perisic and turn its focus to other potential signings. The Gunners have been linked with moves for Barcelona duo Denis Suarez and Malcom although nothing substantial has been seen in the pursuit.
Paris Saint-Germain's Nkunku is reportedly on the London club's radar too.
