Ivan Perišić (36) is eager to transfer to FC Barcelona toward the end of his career.
The British media 'Tribuna' reported on the 15th (Korea time) that "Perišić has completed preparations to reduce his salary for the transfer to Barcelona. He is waiting for Barcelona's decision."
The media reported, "Perišić, a winger from Croatia, is currently a free agent (FA). He has made it clear that he wants to join Barcelona this summer. According to the Spanish media 'Mundo Deportivo,' Perišić is active in reducing his salary for the transfer. He has received a two-year contract offer from PSV Eindhoven but has not accepted it yet."
'Mundo Deportivo' explained, "Perišić is waiting for Barcelona to decide his future. At 36, he is a player specifically requested by coach Hansi Flick to strengthen the attacking line." They added, "Flick has known Perišić since his days at Bayern Munich and understands well what contribution Perišić's versatility and competitive spirit can bring to the team."
The media continued, "Despite having recently received a two-year contract offer from PSV, Perišić wants to wait for Barcelona before making a decision about his future. As a Croatian national team member, he wants to participate 100% in the World Cup and knows that competing at Barcelona would provide a greater opportunity. Therefore, he is willing to accept a lower salary."
Perišić, who bitterly left Tottenham two years ago, has seen his stock rise dramatically. He joined Tottenham in 2022, following his 'mentor' Antonio Conte. However, Perišić could not perform as expected because his movement frequently overlapped with Son Heung-min on the left side, which ultimately led to Conte's departure after some explosive remarks.
Additionally, Perišić entered a long rehabilitation for a near-season-ending ACL injury in September 2023, complicating his time at Tottenham further. Nevertheless, he did not give up and honed his skills through a loan to Hajduk Split in his homeland, Croatia. Last summer, he joined Hajduk as a free agent but suddenly terminated his contract and joined Eindhoven.
Perišić's choice was the right one. He has fully revived this season, scoring nine goals and providing nine assists in 27 league matches in the Netherlands Eredivisie, and recording 16 goals and 10 assists in 35 official games. Despite often playing primarily as a right winger instead of his main position, the left winger, he showcased outstanding skills.
In particular, Perišić scored a valuable opening goal against Sparta Rotterdam in the final match, contributing to Eindhoven's thrilling comeback championship. Thanks to this, Eindhoven achieved a 3-1 victory in the last match, overcoming Ajax to become Eredivisie champions for two consecutive years. This is their 26th league title and 11th in the 21st century.
Now Perišić is receiving a love call from Barcelona. Coach Flick, who considered reuniting with Perišić a year ago, is now trying to acquire him again. 'Mundo Deportivo' reported, "Sources close to Flick have confirmed that he is considering the acquisition of Perišić. It has also been learned that Perišić is inclined to join Barcelona."
Perišić also has a connection with Coach Flick. He played for Bayern Munich on loan during the 2019-2020 season under Flick's guidance. At that time, Bayern defeated Barcelona 8-2 in the UEFA Champions League quarterfinals and became European champions, with Perišić even shaking the Barcelona net.
'Mundo Deportivo' noted, "Flick identified the acquisition of Perišić as a major measure to strengthen competition within the team after achieving a 'domestic treble' in his debut season at Barcelona." They added, "Despite his age, Perišić is known for his professionalism. He maintains excellent physical condition and positively contributes in the locker room. Additionally, as a key resource for the Croatian national team, he has scored 36 goals in 144 international matches."
The media further reported, "Flick, who possesses a natural competitive spirit, fully trusts Perišić and believes he should seize this opportunity to strengthen the squad ahead of next season. He values a balance of experience and youth, as evidenced by the successful acquisition of Wojciech Szczęsny. Flick hopes the same strategy will be repeated with Perišić's acquisition."
Coach Flick views Perišić as an excellent backup for 2007-born Lamine Yamal and as a versatile multi-resource. Moreover, he can play on both flanks, making him capable of adequately replacing Raphinha on the left.
'Mundo Deportivo' pointed out, "Perišić's age of 36 may be considered a disadvantage. However, Barcelona is a very young team that needs players with leadership and experience, which could work as a valuable balance. He will clearly understand his role as a substitute."
'Tribuna' also emphasized that "Coach Flick proposed Perišić's acquisition to the board. They have experience working together at Bayern. Coach Flick trusts Perišić's experience and versatility." They also mentioned that "Barcelona is also considering acquiring Luis Díaz, Marcus Rashford, and Nico Williams. Of course, the 36-year-old Perišić is not a long-term option. However, the fact that he is a free agent (FA) could make him an attractive short-term option for the financially troubled Barcelona club."
If Perišić wears a Barcelona jersey, it would mark his first foray into La Liga. He has already had experience playing in the Bundesliga (Bayern, Dortmund, Wolfsburg), Serie A (Inter), and Premier League (Tottenham).
[Photo] PSV, Michael Talks Football, Sports Kita, Mundo Deportivo, 365 Scores, Tottenham social media.
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