The Coppa Italia hero Ivan Perisic has yet to pledge his future to Inter despite exhausting renewal talks between the parties. As extension talks drag on with potential roadblocks lying on the horizon, the Croatia international could make a surprise switch in the summer.
According to Gazzetta dello Sport, Inter are having trouble tying Perisic down to a new contract, even though the club would like to continue with the in-form wing-back. The 33-year-old’s current deal runs out at the end of the season.
However, Perisic’s stellar season at Giuseppe Meazza, including his match-winning performance against Juventus in the Coppa Italia showpiece, has convinced the Nerazzurri to hand him a new one.
Inter are reportedly ready to go up to €5m net per season plus add-ons to get Perisic to sign a new contract. But, the veteran star is keen to extort nothing less than €6m-a-year, including add-ons, to commit to new terms.
Perisic’s reluctance to put pen to paper on a new Inter deal has opened the door for Juventus. The record-time Italian champions are looking to overhaul their faltering squad in the summer following a first trophyless season in over a decade.
Landing an attacking-minded full-back features Massimiliano Allegri’s list of priorities close to the top, and Perisic fits the profile. Alex Sandro has experienced an underwhelming season, while Luca Pellegrini has problems with inconsistent performances.
Juventus are known for making wise moves in the transfer market, and signing a proven Serie A star without paying a dime fits the billing. Despite his age, Perisic has proved this season that he is still of the best in the business.
There is no doubt that Inter will do everything in their power to prevent Perisic from swapping allegiances. But it is not everything up to them.