Man Utd in talks to beat Arsenal to €60m striker signing
Manchester United are reportedly in internal talks over a possible move for Freiburg striker Igor Matanovic amid strong competition from Arsenal.
The Croatia international was tentatively linked with an Old Trafford switch over the summer, but Michael Carrick’s side opted against seriously pursuing a transfer after failing to sell Joshua Zirkzee on a permanent deal.
However, Matanovic remains on their radar and Man Utd are now one of six Premier League clubs keeping a close eye on his situation, according to a report from TEAMtalk.
The 23-year-old has scored six goals in seven appearances across all competitions so far this season and scouts from Arsenal, Aston Villa, Chelsea, Coventry City, Fulham and Man Utd have all made checks on him this term.
Freiburg are yet to be formally informed of transfer interest in the striker, but Man Utd have reportedly held internal discussions over a possible move, with Michael Carrick understood to have been involved in these talks.
Freiburg are under no pressure to sell Matanovic and, as a result, they have set their asking price at roughly €60 million, despite the fact his Estimated Transfer Value (ETV) currently sits at a mere €14.9m.
It remains to be seen if Man Utd are willing to match this valuation, but it’s reported that he is now viewed as a possible first-choice striker signing by the Red Devils hierarchy, while he would likely play a back-up role if Arsenal or Chelsea win the race for his signature.
Will Man Utd sign Igor Matanovic?
Matanovic has enjoyed a sublime start to the new season and Man Utd’s interest is therefore no surprise, but a deal will likely only take place if Zirkzee departs in 2027.
The Netherlands forward was expected to leave Old Trafford before the end of Deadline Day this summer, after failing to establish himself as a regular under Carrick, however the 13-time Premier League champions were unable to find a suitor.
As a result, he remained at the club and they will once again be required to pursue a sale next year if they want to add a new striker to their ranks.
It’s understood that Matanovic is firmly on their radar, although Man Utd have also been linked with a blockbuster move for Endrick, who has been tipped to leave Real Madrid next year after struggling for consistent game time under new boss Jose Mourinho.
