Antonio Conte has previously said that Ivan Perisic needs to 'believe in himself' more with the winger looking likely to become Tottenham Hotspur’s first signing of the summer transfer window.
The Croatian has long been linked with a move to the Premier League in the past, with the likes of Spurs and Chelsea reported to be going head-to-head for his services ahead of the 2022/23 campaign. It is the North Londoners who appear to have won the race, though.
Reports have claimed that Perisic stayed overnight at Tottenham’s training ground ahead of his medical and will pen a two-year deal with his Inter Milan contract set to expire. Spurs will be getting a player of considerable experience with the 33-year-old having enjoyed trophy-laden spells in Italy and Germany.
He had plenty of success with Spurs boss Conte having played a key role in the club’s Serie A title victory last term. Despite that, the Italian schemer has previously suggested that the veteran could improve his self-belief.
Speaking after a 3-0 thumping of rivals AC Milan last term, Conte said: "Sometimes it takes a little time, especially when you come from abroad. The same goes for Ivan, who this year has shown a great desire to challenge himself.
"He put himself at the full disposal of the cause and today he played an extraordinary match. He has incredible potential and must believe even more in himself."
Will Ivan Perisic be a good signing for Spurs? Have your say in the comments below.
Should Perisic’s medical go through without a hitch, he will become the first arrival of what is expected to be a busy summer at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. ENIC have injected a further £150m into the club with the intention to invest both on and off the pitch.
Conte is expected to pursue a number of further signings this summer as Spurs make their return to the Champions League. The Italian held a meeting with sporting director Fabio Paratici in Turin to map out his future, as well as the club’s plans for the market.
The signing of Perisic is the first stage to those plans with the winger arriving after another impressive season with Inter Milan. Despite the club missing out on the Serie A crown, the World Cup runner-up still managed to score 10 goals and provide nine assists in all competitions, marking his most productive season in over four years.
Perisic previously expressed his desire to play in the Premier League following that standout campaign in 2017/18 - a wish that finally looks set to come true despite his advanced years.
Speaking with Zagreb-based outlet Sportske novosti, he said: “Honestly, I would like to test myself in all of the biggest leagues but the question is will I have the time, I am 29 and working to extend my career as long as I can.
“Yes, I'd like to play in England and Spain but I don't know if there is enough time left.”
