Chelsea remain interested in Inter Milan winger Ivan Perisic — report

According to Sky Sport Italia — via their English language channel — Chelsea are still keen on signing Inter Milan winger Ivan Perisic. Or at least are said to be keen as Inter Milan’s delusions of grandeur are asking for €50m (or possibly £50m) and Manchester United are apparently only willing to offer £36 million for the Croatian international. Chelsea have been linked, off and on, with Perisic for at least 18 months.

The 28-year-old was Inter’s second leading goalscorer behind Mauro Icardi, with 10 goals in Serie A in what was a rather disappointing season for the Nerazzurri. Capable of playing in any position upfront, Perisic has dominated Inter's left wing while Antonio Candreva, who has also been linked with Chelsea in the past, has occupied the opposite flank. Despite his contributions to the team this season, Inter appear to be looking to cash in and use those funds to help properly rebuild the squad.

“[United] haven't made us an official offer for Perisic but their interest is there. We want to improve Inter and this is why we do not have any sellable or un-sellable players as of now. We know that we already have many important players within our roster like Perisic and before we decide to sell him, we have to think about what's best for Inter.”

-Piero Ausilio; source: Premium Sport via Mail

As far as Chelsea are concerned, adding another option besides Eden Hazard, Pedro and Willian in the wide forward positions would not be a bad thing, but Perisic at £50m is not a good option. Chances are, Chelsea are just being used as patsies to try to drive demand and price in any potential Perisic negotiations (with whomever) that may be going on.