Arsenal transfer news: Inter Milan claim Gunners ‘conned’ Ivan Perisic over move

The Gunners were linked with the Croatian winger but a move away from the San Siro failed to materialise, leaving Luciano Spalletti desperately attempting to salvage the player

Inter Milan believe Arsenal ”conned” Ivan Perisic over a proposed move in the January transfer window.

The Croatian winger was unsettled after reports of interest from the Gunners before the deadline expired yesterday for Premier League sides.

And manager Luciano Spalletti believes Arsenal turned the player’s head with an offer that was not genuine.

“We’ve got to get Perisic back on track, but also Nainggolan, as he had injuries, setbacks and various issues. He needs time on the field and patience,” Spalletti told Rai Sport.

“As for Perisic, there was this story on the market, but he is a professional, understands his role and yesterday it was already a very different mood.

“These things happen in the transfer window, the player received an impressive proposal and was tempted. However, he then realised it was not a true offer, that he’d been conned, and took a step back.

“Now he’ll resume training and as soon as his mind is back fully on Inter, we’ll let him play.”

Ivan Perisic of FC Internazionale (Getty Images)

Unai Emery had to settle for Denis Suarez on loan from Barcelona with an option to buy before the deadline passed, boosting his hopes of guiding Arsenal back to the top four, where they currently sit.

Inter, meanwhile, remain on course for a top three finish, with Perisic perhaps returning at the San Siro on Sunday against Bologna.