Ask any fan of Internazionale what they think of Antonio Conte, and the answer is likely to include the world complicato. Why? Because Conte was, until 2019, a legend at Juventus. He had enjoyed immense success as a player, and revived the Old Lady as their head coach. However, a two-year whirlwind romance with the Nerazzurri had left Conte smitten with the Milanese giants. Leaving in a frustrated mood with the ownership due to major player sales, though, Conte left as soon as he arrived.
Winning a Scudetto title and setting up the foundations for this seasons Coppa Italia and Supercoppa triumph, though, has left fans pleased about the Conte era. However, the news that he is keen to sign one of their key players might leave some fans yet further confused about their emotions around Conte.
Reports in Italy suggest that a deal for veteran wing-back Ivan Perisic is not likely to happy. The Croatian, who scored a winning brace in the Coppa Italia final, wants a longer-term and better-paid contract than Inter are offering. Feeling slighted by the club after a tremendous season, Perisic is unlikely to stay at Inter as it stands. Reports of a move to Juventus have naturally caused worry among the clubs fanbase.
However, it is likely that Inter will look to sell him to an English club as opposed to their eternal rivals in Turin. Enter Conte, who is very much keen to land more veterans with winning experience and versatility.
Perisic is the ultimate Conte player – yet he almost was not. The player was seen as surplus to requirements in his first season, but soon returned to put together an outstanding campaign as a left-sided wing-back. Now, Conte is keen for a reunion with one of the few players to win him over after being discarded.
Perisic the ideal player for the Premier League
For years, fans have seen the Croat put outstanding performances together for the Croatian national team. His selfless running, versatility to play in any wide position, and his habit of scoring big goals means he is revered by fans who see him play on a regular basis. At 33, some worry he might be lacking the fitness that he once had.
Watch Perisic this year, though, and the Croat is arguably playing the best football of his career. His fitness cannot be questioned, as he has been a near-permanent choice since January. He plays almost every minute, picks up clutch goals and assists, and has been key to Inter winning trophies and improving.
While he might not be at his peak age anymore, there is plenty lefty in the tank for Perisic. This current generation of veterans are all showing more longevity and depth than athletes of previous generations. Conte and Spurs could easily count on Perisic to cover the wing-back roles in Conte’s formation for at least two years.
If they can convince Inter to sell after contract talks likely fail, Perisic would be one of the smartest signings of the summer.
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