Barcelona linked with surprise move for 36-year-old veteran free agent, Hansi Flick keen | OneFootball

It is no secret at this point that FC Barcelona are in the market for a new winger this summer and Luis Diaz has emerged as the priority target.

With a move for the Colombian international getting complicated, Barça are also keeping an eye out for alternatives such as Marcus Rashford and Rafael Leao.

Ivan Perisic also on the radars of Barcelona

Now, in a surprise development, BILD (h/t Mundo Deportivo) reports that Ivan Perisic has emerged as a target for Barcelona, with Hansi Flick pushing for his arrival.

The German coach is open to signing the Croatian winger, who is now a free agent after a stint at PSV Eindhoven.

Interestingly, though, the 36-year-old’s arrival would be independent of any other winger signing, such as the heavily discussed pursuit of Luis Diaz.

The report claims that Flick sees Perisic as a valuable addition. The Croatian would be an option on the right flank, as a rotational piece for Lamine Yamal, while Diaz would be more of a direct alternative to Raphinha on the left.

Flick and Perisic during their time at Bayern. (Photo by Sebastian Widmann/Bongarts/Getty Images)

At 36 years old, Perisic’s age may appear to be a drawback, but it could also provide balance to a very young Barcelona squad in need of experienced, character-driven figures. He is a player who would accept a backup role.

Flick previously coached Perisic during their time at Bayern Munich and there were rumours of a potential reunion last summer but nothing came of it.

While his natural role is on the left, the veteran winger operated mainly on the right wing for PSV this season and finished the campaign with 11 goals and 11 assists.

Perisic is reportedly considered a good fit due to his contractual status, experience, and established relationship with Flick.

At this point though, these reports need to be taken with a pinch of salt with confirmation for more reliable sources awaited.