Report: Arsenal in battle with Tottenham and Tuchel to sign 'extraordinary' star

By Jordan Harris

Arsenal have joined Tottenham Hotspur in the race to sign Ivan Perisic, with the Sunday Mirror (16/1; page 72) reporting that Inter Milan are ready to sell the wide-man this month.

Perisic is out of contract in the summer. Of course, that opens the door for clubs to discuss a pre-contract deal with the Croatian. However, the Nerazzurri are open to cashing in on the 32-year-old this month.

And there are a host of Premier League clubs interested. It was reported earlier this month that Antonio Conte was keen to be reunited with Perisic at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

The Sunday Mirror also suggests that Spurs want Perisic. However, they also claim (16/1; page 72) that Chelsea and Arsenal are both admirers of the star.

The report notes that a move to Stamford Bridge appeals most to Perisic. But much may come down to who is prepared to make the best offer to Inter, and then to the player himself.

‘Extraordinary’ Perisic could be a shrewd signing for Arsenal or Tottenham

Of course, Arsenal fans may be a little concerned. They do not have the best record when it comes to signing ageing players. And Perisic turns 33 next month.

However, his contract situation may make a move a lot more appealing. He is a player with 91 goals involvements in 230 games for Inter. And he has actually matched his goals total in Serie A last season in this campaign already.

Conte previously labelled him ‘extraordinary‘ and claimed that he had incredible potential. So a move would have the potential to be very impressive.

Tottenham certainly need to strengthen in the wide positions. Meanwhile, Arsenal’s need for further signings has probably increased as they deal with several injuries.

As things stand, Chelsea are reportedly in the driving seat. But Arsenal or Tottenham may yet hope that they can spring a surprise.