Ivan Perisic has told Stadium Astro that he almost joined Arsenal in 2019, and Manchester United in 2017 – underlining his delight to finally get a chance to play in the Premier League with new club Tottenham Hotspur.
Perisic, 33, has joined Spurs on a free transfer from Inter Milan. One of six signings made by Spurs, along with Fraser Forster, Djed Spence, Clement Lenglet, Yves Bissouma and Richarlison. Well over £100million has been spent.
However, Perisic and Forster have joined on frees, and Lenglet on a free. Inter did not renew the 113-time Croatia international’s contract despite the winger having a hand in 19 goals during his 48 games for Inter last term.
Speaking on Stadium Astro ahead of Tottenham’s first game of the season against Southampton, Perisic says he almost joined Arsenal three years ago – likely to be during Unai Emery’s era. Manchester United came close too, five years ago.
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“I’m so excited to be in the Premier League. I wanted to come to the Premier League so many years ago, but always something happened. Can’t wait to start. I was close to coming, very close [to coming before],” Perisic said.
“With Manchester United in 2017, and then Arsenal in 2019. A lot of other clubs too, but always something happened in the last moment. But okay, we don’t look at the past. I just want to focus and do my best with Tottenham.”
New Tottenham star Perisic almost joined Arsenal in 2019
Two things are quite surprising regarding Perisic’s revelation. The actual fact he almost joined Arsenal three years ago, but also that he was so open in admitting such. It only sparks the rivalry between the two sides, even more.
You can imagine what the reception is going to be like if he features in the North London derby at The Emirates, following his comments. However, Perisic is a top professional and at this stage of his career, it will hardly affect him.
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