Why Manchester United must sign Inter star Ivan Perisic in January
According to the Sun, Manchester United have received a major boost in their pursuit of Inter Milan midfielder Ivan Perisic. The Red Devils were linked with a move for the Croatian in the summer but a move ultimately failed to materialise given the financial demands from the Serie A side.
But according to the report, a fee of around £31million might be enough to land the Inter star in January. Though the Italian side set their valuation at £48million in the summer, United executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward feels £31million should do the trick.
Perisic was in flying form for his country at the World Cup in the summer, scoring 3 goals and providing 1 assist in 7 appearances in Russia. But he has since failed to hit the heights with Inter this season, having scored just 2 goals and provided 2 assists in 12 appearances in the Italian league. (Stats courtesy – Whoscored)
Though those are not bad numbers, it’s definitely not good given the Croatian’s potential. Manchester United should definitely consider landing him in January. A move away could freshen things up for both Jose Mourinho and Perisic himself.
Playing on the left-hand side of the attacking midfield, Perisic is a powerful and energetic player who is always a thorn in any side. Though Anthony Martial is in the best form of his career at the moment, there are no assurances over whether the Frenchman will continue at Old Trafford.
Mourinho has always admired Perisic and the Croatian possesses the qualities that will help him flourish under the Portuguese manager. He loves driving at defences and whipping in delicious crosses.
Most of United’s front field players have lacked the end product or failed to provide the right kind of supply. Perisic will definitely create more chances given his experience and ability to pick the passes in the final third. He is hardworking midfielder who rarely gives away possession cheaply. Perisic’s technical ability matches Mourinho’s pragmatic style of play.
He can dribble, shoot, pass and drive at defenders comfortably. Perisic is also versatile enough to play anywhere in the midfield, so Mourinho will not have to worry about dropping Anthony Martial to field him.
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Manchester United should definitely complete the move for Ivan Perisic this time out. If not for Martial’s moments, the Red Devils are struggling to score goals on a consistent basis. Mourinho must ensure he brings in the Croatian when the transfer window opens in January.