Inter Milan Ivan Perisic has lifted the lid on why he turned down a proposed move to Old Trafford during the summer transfer window. The Croatia international was heavily linked with a switch to Manchester United, but ultimately a deal could not materialise with the Nerazzurri failing to come to a compromise over the transfer fee.
Since then, the versatile attacker has contributed seven goals and three assists in 13 Serie A appearances including a hat-trick in the 5-0 thumping of Chievo over the weekend.
Speaking on Sport Mediaset h/t The Mirror, Perisic appeared to hint that the transfer valuation was not the main problem and he was convinced to stay put by manager Luciano Spalletti.
He said: “Luciano Spalletti told us that every player is important and we got proof of that in the win, as even those who haven’t had as much space made their mark. Spalletti was extremely important in convincing me to stay.”
Perisic committed his future to the Nerazzurri on a fresh five-year contract earlier in September, and interest in the attacker has seemingly diminished over the past couple of months.
Jose Mourinho had visualised the Croatian to feature in the left wing-back spot in a three-at-the-back formation, but he will undoubtedly be pleased with the impact of Ashley Young since his injury comeback in September.
The 32-year-old has been one of United’s stand-out performers since his return to the starting lineup, and his performances have also earned him a call-up to Gareth Southgate’s England squad after a four-year absence.
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