Two reasons why Hansi Flick wants to sign veteran winger at Barcelona | OneFootball

Barcelona’s pursuit of a new winger is well documented, and while Luis Diaz remains the priority target, an unexpected player has steadily gained traction within the club’s sporting department, namely, Ivan Perisic.

At 36 years of age, the Croatian veteran may not appear to be the obvious solution for a club often associated with youth and long-term planning, but his recent form and personal connection with Hansi Flick are factors that cannot be overlooked, reports SPORT.

Flick likes a leader like Perisic

Even in a supporting role, Perisic’s credentials suggest he could bring considerable value to a young Barcelona squad that still lacks balance and seasoned leadership.

While it may seem surprising for a club like Barça to consider a player in the twilight of his career, the context makes the decision more understandable.

Perisic has the full backing of Hansi Flick, who coached him during their successful spell at Bayern Munich. Under Flick, the winger played 26 matches, scoring 6 goals and assisting 8 times.

Hansi Flick would love to work with Perisic once again. (Photo by CHRISTOPHE SIMON/AFP via Getty Images)

Beyond his output on the pitch, Perisic was a vocal figure in the dressing room, something Flick deeply values, especially in a Barcelona team filled with emerging stars.

Still in top form

This season at PSV Eindhoven, Perisic featured in 39 matches across all competitions, scoring 16 goals and 11 assists

His performances have extended beyond the club level, too. In Croatia’s World Cup qualifying campaign, Perisic was instrumental, scoring in both matches and racking up four assists, including a hat-trick of assists and a goal in a commanding 7-0 win against Gibraltar.

These numbers reflect not only consistency but also a hunger to compete at the highest level.

In a squad where youngsters like Lamine Yamal and Fermin Lopez are expected to shoulder more responsibility next season, the addition of a seasoned professional like Perisic could provide crucial balance.