Man Utd hold internal talks over £50m move for Freiburg striker Igor Matanovic

Manchester United are reportedly continuing internal discussions over a deal to sign SC Freiburg striker Igor Matanovic. The 23-year-old Croatian has scored five goals and registered two assists in five appearances across all competitions this season, and Freiburg want around £50m for him.

  • Player: Igor Matanovic, 23, striker, Croatia international
  • Club: SC Freiburg (contract until 2029)
  • Reported fee: Around £50m if Freiburg are forced to sell
  • Stage: Man Utd have previously held talks and continue internal discussions; no concrete approach yet
  • Rivals: Aston Villa, Coventry City, Fulham, Arsenal and Chelsea have all been monitoring him
  • Next for United: Premier League clash with Tottenham Hotspur this weekend after the international break

Deal details

According to TEAMtalk, Manchester United have been attracted by Matanovic's recent development and previously held talks to sign him as a backup striker option. Those conversations have reportedly continued internally, though no formal bid has been made.

Freiburg are under no pressure to sell. Matanovic's contract runs until 2029, and the Bundesliga club would demand around £50m if they were forced to part with him. The report adds that Aston Villa, Coventry City, Fulham, Arsenal and Chelsea have all been keeping a close eye on his progress before making a potential move.

The timing of any approach remains unclear. United could decide to act in January or wait until next summer, and it is not yet known whether they will make a concrete offer at all.

The numbers

  • Age: 23
  • Height: 6ft 5in
  • Foot: Right
  • Contract: Until 2029
  • Reported asking price: Around £50m
  • Last season: 15 goals, four assists across all competitions for Freiburg
  • This season: Five goals, two assists in five appearances across all competitions

Why Man Utd want Matanovic

United's striker situation is far from settled. Benjamin Sesko and Joshua Zirkzee are the specialist options, while Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo can cover through the middle but are more comfortable on the flanks. Zirkzee has struggled to adapt to the Premier League since arriving from Bologna, and Sesko has had numerous fitness problems in recent months. A new centre-forward is therefore a genuine priority for next year.

At 6ft 5in, Matanovic offers a different profile to what United currently have. He is right-footed, physically imposing and has shown he can score in a competitive league — his record for Freiburg last season and his fast start this term have helped the club sit third in the Bundesliga. For a side that has lacked a reliable focal point, that combination is attractive. The fee, however, is significant for a player who would initially arrive as back-up.

Freiburg's negotiating position is strong. With Matanovic under contract until 2029 and in excellent form, they have no reason to sell cheaply. United's interest is long-standing, but internal discussions are a long way from a deal. Any move would likely require a clear decision on Zirkzee's future and confidence that Matanovic can handle the step up to a club where the scrutiny is far greater.

Talking points

  • Is spending £50m on a back-up striker the right call when United have other problem areas in the squad?
  • Should United move in January or wait until next summer, when Freiburg's resolve might soften?
  • With Arsenal and Chelsea also monitoring, can United afford to wait without losing the race for his signature?
  • Does Matanovic's profile actually suit the way United want to play, or is he just a tall target man?

What happens next

United return to Premier League action against Tottenham Hotspur this weekend following the international break. Beyond that, the key question is whether the club turn their internal discussions into a concrete approach — either in January or next summer. Freiburg's £50m valuation and Matanovic's contract until 2029 mean any deal will be expensive and slow to negotiate.

Frequently asked questions

Are Man Utd signing Igor Matanovic?

Not yet. United have reportedly held talks and continue internal discussions, but no formal bid has been made and no agreement is in place.

How much would Igor Matanovic cost?

Freiburg want around £50m if they are forced to sell him, according to the report.

Which other clubs are interested in Igor Matanovic?

Aston Villa, Coventry City, Fulham, Arsenal and Chelsea have all been keeping a close eye on his development, as per TEAMtalk.

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