Ivan Perisic: Arsenal target was ‘really close to leaving Inter’ for Man United in 2017

Ivan Perisic: Arsenal target was ‘really close to leaving Inter’ for Man United in 2017
Ivan Perisic was on the brink of leaving Inter for Manchester United in the summer of 2017.The Arsenal target, who has handed in a transfer request at the San Siro, had a keen admirer in the shape of former boss Jose Mourinho, but eventually decided to stay at Inter.2

Ivan Perisic has handed in a transfer request at Inter

The Croatia international – who scored in both the semi-final and final of the World Cup – admits he was flattered by the interest shown in him by Mourinho.He told FourFourTwoat the end of November: Its true that an offer from Manchester United was on the table I was really close to leaving Inter.Admiration from a coach like Mourinho is definitely something that flattered me.“Its confirmation of hard work and good performances.“When youre praised by a guy like Mourinho the manager of a huge club like Man United its difficult not to think about such an offer.“Im glad he has a high opinion of me. These things motivate me to work and train hard, to achieve the best performances.2

Perisic has revealed he came to close to signing for Manchester United – then managed by Jose Mourinho – in 2017

Perisic, 29, says it was the role of Luciano Spalletti which ultimately proved crucial as he opted to stay in Italy at that time.He added: When Luciano Spalletti arrived [in June 2017], he showed tremendous desire to keep me in the team and made it clear he didnt want to lose me.“That was very encouraging, and I havent regretted my decision to stay at Inter.“In football, small details in these situations are key.”The 29-year-old has gone on to make 130 appearances for Inter, after previously spending four years in Germany with Borussia Dortmund and Wolfsburg.And Perisic has admitted he harbours ambitions of playing in England one day. In football, you never say never,” he admitted.“From the beginning of my career, Ive had the ambition to play in as many big leagues as possible, and I still have that desire to test myself in other leagues.“And I mean in the Spanish or English leagues.“I hope Inter fans understand my point of view. Im an athlete and a professional, I like challenges and this is my driving force.“What the future will bring, I dont know. Now Im focused on Inter, as we try to make a bigger step forward from last season.

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