‘Conte knows him’: Journalist says Spurs boss trusts ‘exceptional’ forward who reportedly wants N17 move

Sat 23 April 2022 14:15, UK

Pete O’Rourke has tipped Tottenham Hotspur to make a summer move for Ivan Perisic.

The journalist, writing on , says Spurs boss Antonio Conte “knows and trusts” the Inter Milan ace.

Tottenham director Fabio Paratici is known to like a free transfer.

And this summer, a host of top players will be out of contract.

One of those is Perisic, a player Spurs are reportedly eyeing, and who in turn is apparently eager for a Conte reunion.

reported in December that Perisic’s first preference when his deal expires is to join Conte at Tottenham.

It was claimed that the two would ’embrace’ a reunion.

Also, the fact Perisic would be a free agent makes him a really attractive option.

claimed in February that Tottenham have already offered a deal to the 33-year-old.

However, recently reported that Inter will open talks with Perisic over a new contract soon.

O’Rourke thinks Perisic on a free transfer is a no-brainer.

“Perisic has been a real top player for a number of years now,” he wrote on GiveMeSport.

“He’s played all across Europe, Germany, Italy and everywhere else.

“He has been playing left wing-back for Inter Milan this season and has taken to that role without any issues at all.

“He’s got great experience. Conte knows him from his time at Inter Milan as well, so it’s a player that he knows and trusts.”

“One of the best in Europe”

Perisic turned 33 in February, but he’s still playing at the highest level and has plenty to offer Tottenham.

He earned widespread praise for his display in the Champions League last-16 first-leg defeat to Liverpool.

gave him 7/10 and wrote: “When he plays like he did in the second half, he gives the feeling of being one of the best in Europe in that role.

“Continuous challenges, quality crosses, accurate passes and defensive contributions. Too bad they didn’t help him out up front.”

wrote that Perisic was “in a different league”, while called him “exceptional” and the “owner of the left wing”.