Free agent Perisic reunites with Conte at Tottenham

Tottenham have signed Ivan Perisic on a free transfer from Inter Milan.

The Croatian international, 33, has been handed a two-year deal and will reunite with former boss Antonio Conte at Spurs.

He played as a wing-back under the Italian during Inter’s Scudetto win in 2020-21.

Tottenham are expected to heavily back Conte this summer after announcing a cash injection of £150million and more players should follow Perisic through the door in the coming weeks.

The Croatian international has revealed that Spurs qualifying for the Champions League was a big factor in choosing the North London outfit.

He said: "I was waiting in the last two or three games — I was watching. 

"After the victory against Arsenal, it was obvious that Tottenham would get into the Champions League and that was good for me. 

"I want to play in the best games and do a great job in Champions League, as well as Premier League and the two cups. 

"I’m really excited to start with the Spurs family. When I got the contact from the coach and the sporting director, I told them I really wanted to come here to the Premier League ever since 2009, when I started playing professional football in Belgium."

Perisic was also lured by the opportunity of working with Conte once again. 

He added: "It’s a privilege to work with a coach like this. We won the league after 10 years and it was really a perfect year. 

"I’m really happy to see him again. He lives football every minute, every hour, every day, even when he’s sleeping he is thinking about football. 

"I like his character and I know we’re going to do great work here."

After a seven-year stint at Inter, the winger left the San Siro with a heavy heart.

In an Instagram post, Perisic said: "Even though every end means a new beginning, it's important to reflect back on these past years and show you my deepest appreciation for the work accomplished.

"It was an unforgettable learning experience for me as a player and for my whole family.

"To the team, the staff, to all the employees, but most importantly to the fans, you will always have a special place in my heart.

"I leave feeling privileged to have this club in my portfolio."