OPINION
Ivan Perisic’s heroics for Croatia on Wednesday night (11 July) in their 2-1 extra time win over England in the World Cup semi-finals would have undoubtedly caught the attention of many clubs – and Manchester United must be front of the queue.
The 29-year-old netted the equaliser with twenty minutes to go in a tense semi-final, before team mate Mario Mandzukic slotted home the winner from close range to reach the final against France.
Based on this dazzling semi-final performance, Manchester United must move to sign the Croatia international imminently, and forget about trying to keep a hold of Anthony Martial, whose agent, speaking to RMC, has linked him with an exit from Old Trafford this summer.
Perisic gave a dazzling display of his midfield ability, unlocking the English defence a number of times before finally finding a way through to get his side on equal terms in the tie.
He was too much for his opponents to handle at times, and Red Devils’ boss Jose Mourinho would be mad not to snap up a player of such calibre and technical ability – especially if he loses Martial.
The 6’1″ (source: Transfermarkt) wide man is evidently an under rated player at times, often overshadowed by fellow countryman Luka Modric when it comes to major tournaments such as the World Cup and the European Championships.
However, his 11 goals for Serie A outfit Inter Milan only go to reinforce the idea that Mourinho should bring him to Old Trafford.
His performance for his country has only go to show that he is in the prime of his career, and it will not be long before he attracts a host of clubs from all over Europe.
The wing wizard’s presence in the United midfield would be lethal alongside Lingard, and Mourinho would be drooling at the damage he could cause to his opponent’s opposites.
Even though he helped crushed the hopes of English fans, the United faithful are bound to welcome him with open arms – and Mourinho must snap him up quickly.