Numerous reports across both Italy and Germany suggest Ivan Perisic to Bayern Munich is a deal that has already been completed in principle. A few issues remain that must be ironed out, but it seems just a matter of days before the 30-year-old completes his move to Munich. Though this might appear an underwhelming move, Ivan Perisic could prove a great purchase for the German champions.
Ivan Perisic to Bayern Munich Could Be Great
Leroy Sane Out, Bayern Must Act Quick
It was confirmed earlier this week that Leroy Sane damaged his ACL playing for Manchester City against Liverpool last weekend. The Germany international was on the verge of returning to his home country to sign for Bayern Munich. Bayern’s entire summer transfer strategy hinged on signing Sane. His injury has left them in a state of disarray, scrambling to bring in some depth for the wings.
Enter Ivan Perisic. Within the past few days, Die Roten have both identified the Croatian as a target and reportedly agreed on terms for a transfer with Inter. Perisic will join Bayern on an initial one-year loan for €5 million, per Fabrizio Romano. Bayern can make his move permanent at the season’s end, however, for €20 million.
Perisic has had an excellent career so far, one which includes a World Cup final goal. Although he is coming off a somewhat disappointing season, he still has plenty of talent to contribute at the top level. But what exactly does he offer Niko Kovac’s Bayern?
Depth and Experience
It is hardly a surprise many Bayern Munich fans are underwhelmed by their club signing Ivan Perisic. Just a week ago all indicators pointed toward their club signing superstar Leroy Sane to put an end a transfer saga that has lasted all summer long. Perisic is not bad by any means, but the prospect of signing a 30-year-old on a one-year loan does not quite invoke the same excitement as would signing one of the world’s best wingers who is just 23 years old.
This Perisic deal may not be very flashy, but it shows a great deal of practicality from Bayern’s executive staff. Bayern fans should not feel hard done by this transfer; they should be looking forward to it.
It must first be clarified that only a fool would believe Perisic is the only winger the club adds this summer. Bayern could still plan to purchase Leroy Sane this summer. In fact, signing Perisic on loan for a season more than likely indicates that the Bavarians are still intent on signing Sane ASAP.
If they do not sign Sane in the coming weeks, there is absolutely no doubt they will bring in another player to bolster their offensive (be it Timo Werner, Steven Bergwijn, Dani Olmo, or someone else). It is entirely possible, even, that Bayern sign both Sane and an additional winger to go along with Perisic.
Regardless, the point stands that Bayern are not signing Perisic with expectations of him starting every match. The Croatian is coming to add two important things that Bayern’s wing department currently lacks: depth and experience.
Niko Kovac’s Request
Perhaps one of the biggest positives of the Ivan Perisic to Bayern Munich deal is that it means Niko Kovac is finally getting one of his targets. Since assuming the mantle of Bayern coach, Kovac has suggested many players to his superiors, each of whom could have been acquired for a reasonable fee. So far, however, none of his reported targets have even been considered.
That will change with Ivan Perisic, however. Kovac is a big fan of his compatriot. He reportedly recommended him to the Bayern board earlier this summer even.
Not only does Kovac appreciate Perisic for his hard-working qualities; he also sees the 30-year-old as a dynamic option who could fill-in well in multiple systems. Perisic would make for a fantastic option at left-wing in Kovac’s preferred 4-3-3, but he would also fit well on the left flank in a 4-2-3-1. His two-footedness would allow him to slot in on the right flank if needed. His natural ability in the final third, meanwhile, would ensure he remains a threat no matter where he is played.
Perisic is already familiar with the Bundesliga, having played for both Borussia Dortmund and Wolfsburg. He should, therefore, have no problems getting adjusted to life at Bayern.
The 30-year-old may not be the big signing Bayern fans are craving after their summer-long chase of Leroy Sane came to a disappointing halt, but Ivan Perisic could still prove an intelligent signing for the Bavarian giants.
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