Arsenal Reportedly Interested in Inter Milan Star Ivan Perisic

Arsenal are reportedly looking to sign Inter Milan winger Ivan Perisic on loan in the January transfer window with a view to making the deal permanent in the summer.

BBC Sport's David Ornstein provided details of the Gunners' interest in the Croatia international:

Perisic has been one of the standout wingers in Serie A during his time at Inter. He was also impressive during the FIFA World Cup in Russia last summer, helping his country reach the final.

The winger came up with some big goals for Croatia in Russia, netting in the semi-final win against England and the final defeat to France.

In a separate report, Ornstein said "Arsenal's original plan for the January transfer window was to secure loan deals for a versatile midfielder and a winger," with Perisic said to be a "leading option."

When asked about speculation regarding the 29-year-old, Inter manager Luciano Spalletti said he's not surprised by the links, per Football Italia.

"It's only normal that people talk about him during a transfer window because he's such a good player," the Inter boss said. "You don't talk about someone who has no chance of receiving an offer. The player knows his profession, so we expect him to keep doing what he needs to do."

Omnisport's Sacha Pisani noted that Perisic hasn't been at his best for Inter in 2018-19 and thinks a transfer could pave the way for another addition for the Serie A side:

As Ornstein noted, the Gunners are looking to improve their midfield options, with Aaron Ramsey's departure at the end of the campaign seemingly inevitable. Manager Unai Emery appears to be undecided on Mesut Ozil, too, with the German on the fringes of the starting XI.

Perisic is a name that will excite Arsenal supporters, as he has the potential to bring something different to the team's attack. He is also at his best in wide positions, where the Gunners lack options.

Charles Watts of Football.London has mixed opinions on the potential acquisition of the Inter man:

AFTV's DT thinks the team should look at strengthening other areas of the squad:

In the past, Perisic has been linked with a move to Manchester United, and his style of play has long been considered ideal for English football.

The winger operates with an aggression and incision that makes him difficult to deal with. Perisic brings a physicality to the flanks, while he's also adept at getting crosses into dangerous areas and finding goalscoring positions himself.

The Croat has the potential to make an immediate impact, but it would be a gamble if Arsenal ended up paying so much for a player of his age who is so reliant on a dynamism that may soon wane.