And the Daily Star Sunday can reveal United’s rivals for the Premier League crown are hoping the Old Trafford manager does not get his man.
That is how highly rated Perisic, 28, is and Mourinho is urging United’s transfer-fixer, Ed Woodward, to clinch a £48million deal.
Talks are continuing between the clubs and also at agent level – and United believe progress is being made, despite Inter boss Luciano Spalletti insisting yesterday that the “conversation is over” when it comes to any deal.
United were again linked with Real Madrid’s Wales hero, Gareth Bale, last week.
But Bale’s agent, Jonathan Barnett, described the idea of the former Spurs star leaving Madrid for Manchester as “ridiculous and stupid.”
And the winger Mourinho wants is not Bale, 28, but Perisic.
A well-placed source at one of United’s top-six rivals said: “Perisic would be a make-the-difference signing for United.
“He’s a top, top player and if United get him – added to what they have already got – they will take some stopping this season and could well win the league.”
