With the final months of the 2016-17 approaching, it is Chelsea’s title to lose in the English Premier League. After mustering off to one of the worst title defences ever in the history of the English top flight last season, the Blues finally seem to have regained the mojo and are on their way to the Premier League title this year. Sitting 8 points clear on top of the Premier League, the Blues are almost certain to feature in Europe next season and strengthening the squad will surely by on top of Antonio Conte’s priority list.
One of the players, who is turning Conte’s head with his performances is the Croatian midfielder, Ivan Perisic, who is currently plying his trade with Inter Milan in Serie A. The 28-year old joined the Italian outfit from Wolfsburg for £13.6m in the summer of 2015. Inter have been quite open with their intention of not selling their prized commodity as he has been a top performer for them.
Standing at 1.87 meters, the Croatian will add the much needed height to the Chelsea midfield, which comprises of good ball players like N’Golo Kanté and Cesc Fabregas. Perisic is very strong in the air, winning close to 2 duels per game.
The attacking midfielder has started in 19 league matches so far for Inter Milan, netting 6 goals, while setting up 2 more for his teammates. He has a total of 7 goals from 29 appearances so far this season, which is not bad, considering the defensive nature of teams in Serie A.
Perisic has good ability to hold the ball and likes to participate in counter-attacks, which is one of the major qualities displayed by Chelsea after shifting to the 3-4-3 formation. The player likes to dribble a lot, which is possessed by two of Chelsea’s important wide players, Eden Hazard and Pedro Rodriguez. Quite a few of Chelsea’s goals this season have come in through quick transition play and if Perisic signs, he will be bringing that attribute with him to the squad.
With the number of games set to increase due to Chelsea’s participation in the UEFA Champions League, alongside the crunch fixtures of English football, the signing of Ivan Perisic will give Antonio Conte some much needed squad depth next season.
The player has no significant weaknesses in his play and can play in multiple positions in the attacking third. His ability to indulge in physical battles with the opposition will make him a prized asset in English football. With youngsters like Nathaniel Chalobah, Ruben Loftus-Cheek and other academy graduates stepping up, the Italian gaffer will have the luxury of rotating the squad by maintaining experience in it, if Perisic decides to play for the Blues next season.
Stats via Whoscored
