Romano confirms Tuchel ‘appreciated’ Croatia attacker ahead of summer transfer, gives fresh transfer update
According to Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano, Thomas Tuchel “appreciates” Ivan Perisic, but the Blues are yet to hold conversations about signing the Croatian international.
However, Inter Milan’s 33-year-old attacking midfielder is out of contract this summer, and he does not appear to be close to re-signing with the Serie A club.
Perisic could be available on a free transfer this summer as a result of the scenario, with the former Wolfsburg winner appearing to be on his way out of the San Siro.
Tuchel, according to Italian journalist Romano, is a big fan of the Croatian international and has been monitoring his position since January.
However, according to the reporter, Chelsea is “still waiting” to arrange a contract to capture Perisic during the summer transfer window.
Posting on his Twitter account, Romano wrote: “Perisic has no agreement with any club yet. He’s appreciated by Tuchel since January, but Chelsea are still waiting to negotiate – nothing done.
“Inter are still hopeful to reach an agreement with Perisic, but they need to improve their bid – and Ljubicic is not his agent.”
However, the transfer ban is expected to be lifted in the coming weeks when the club’s takeover is finally completed.
Romano’s comments come after reports in Italy suggested that Chelsea FC have already reached an agreement to sign Perisic on a free transfer in the summer.
A report by Sportmediaset, which has been picked up by English media outlets in recent days, suggests that winger is expected to join Chelsea, subject to a medical and the final terms of the deal being agreed.
Perisic has scored seven goals and made six assists in 33 Serie A games for Inter this season, and he has also notched up 14 appearances in the cup competitions.