Antonio Conte has some incredible plans for the squad at the Stamford Bridge this summer as he is looking to sign some of the most exciting stars in Europe. And one player that Conte is ready to make a club-record bid for is Inter Milan midfielder Ivan Perisic.
Also wanted by Manchester United, Perisic is a pacey winger who has been in decent form this season in Italy, but Inter Milan are set to let a few players leave this summer to meet the Financial Fair Play restrictions and Perisic could be a part of that exodus. So who is Perisic and what will he add to Chelsea next season?
Born and brought up in Yugoslavia, the 28-year started his youth career in his hometown but has since played for clubs in France, Belgium, Germany and has been in Italy since 2015, after his move from Wolfsburg. Ever since he has established a first-team place at the San Siro and already has more than 60 league appearances for the side.
Capable of playing on either wing, the hard-working winger has been in decent form this season, picking up 10 goals and nine assists in all competitions this season. He plays mainly on the left wing but is more than capable of playing a deeper role if needed and this versatility is what has attracted Conte.
Known for his dedication and hard working nature in every game, Perisic is a strong player who loves to have the ball at his feet. He is adept at holdup play, something that will make him an instant hit in the Premier League. He is a decent passer, whose vision and accuracy over long ranges is commendable. He loves to play short passes and cut in from the wing to open up the back line of his opponents and is not a winger who will deliver crosses from the byline.
But his biggest strength is his counter attacking instincts. With loads of pace to burn, Perisic is usually involved in most counter attacks from his team and his experience and the cool head on his shoulder, allow him to pick the right pass more often than not.
He will play in a similar position as Eden Hazard, Willian and Pedro at Chelsea and though he can deputise at wing-back, Conte will have to use him in an attacking role for him to be productive. Hazard wants an exit and Perisic could be touted as a possible replacement but at the moment, he is just an option for Conte to improve the depth in the squad.
He has more than 50 national appearances for Croatia and is one of the most experienced options in this position, available in the transfer market. But it is hard to see him walk into the first team but his experience at various levels of club and national football is sure to make him an indispensable asset for Chelsea for years to come.
