Tottenham Hotspur

Tottenham Hotspur

Premier League • England

Ivan Perisic sends emotional message to Inter as Tottenham confirm wide man’s signing

New Tottenham man Ivan Perisic

Tottenham have confirmed the signing of Croatia international Ivan Perisic from Inter Milan on a free transfer.

The 33-year-old had become a target for Tottenham in recent months, as his contract began to run down at the San Siro. Over the weekend, Antonio Conte’s side reportedly reached a ‘full agreement’ with Perisic on personal terms.

And Tottenham have now revealed Perisic will link up with the team when his Inter deal expires on July 1.

Perisic, who has won 113 caps for Croatia, has signed a two-year contract with the north London club.

The move will see him reunite with Italian coach Conte. The pair worked together at Inter for one season in 2020-21.

And the partnership proved to be a success, with Conte playing Perisic 42 times in all competitions as Inter won the Serie A title.

The veteran winger proved his worth to Conte that campaign by operating in a variety of positions.

Recently, Perisic has been playing as a left midfielder or left wing-back, which should fit Conte’s system well.

Ivan Perisic begins new chapter at Spurs

The transfer sees him end his seven-year association with the Nerazzurri. Together they have won Serie A, a Coppa Italia and a Supercoppa Italiana.

In a farewell post on Instagram, Perisic wrote to the Inter supporters. “After 254 games, 55 goals, 49 assists, 3 trophies and 18,934 minutes spent on the pitch wearing this glorious jersey; my journey here has come to an end,” he said.

“Even though every end means a new beginning it’s important to reflect back on these past years and show you my deepest appreciation for the work accomplished. ⁣⁣⁣⁣It was an unforgettable learning experience for me as a player and for my whole family.

Ivan Perisic waving to the Inter Milan crowd

“To the team, the staff, to all the employees but most importantly to the fans : you will always have a special place in my heart. I leave feeling privileged having this club in my portfolio.”

Perisic will likely compete with Sergio Reguilon and Ryan Sessegnon for a place in the starting eleven. But Conte could put him further forward, as part of the front three, if one of the first-choice attackers pick up an injury.

Perisic’s winning attitude – he also won the Bundesliga with Bayern in 2019-20 – will help Spurs as they look to end their long wait for a trophy.

Plus, the signing of a recognised European star is a signal of intent from Conte and could be the first of a few new arrivals this summer.

Meanwhile, Harry Winks is picking up interest from a Spanish team after being told he can leave Spurs.