In a recent report , journalist Pete O'Rourke offered an update on Manchester United and their pursuit of Freiburg striker Igor Matanovic. It is understood that the Red Devils are facing competition from Arsenal in the race to sign the Croat forward and would have to wait until next summer before they have a chance of recruiting him.
Matanovic has made a good start to this Bundesliga campaign as he has managed to put in a run of productive performances for Freiburg in the final third. The 23-year-old scored six goals and grabbed a couple of assists in seven matches for the German club this season across all competitions.
The Croat talent is currently one of the most talented forwards in the Bundesliga . Hence, it is no wonder that the Red Devils are hoping to land him in 2027.
Matanovic has proven himself to be a consistent performer in Germany. However, only time will tell whether he can maintain his good form in the Premier League if Man United manage to sign him next summer.
PADERBORN, GERMANY – SEPTEMBER 05: Igor Matanovic of SC Freiburg runs with the ball during the Bundesliga 2026/27 match between SC Paderborn 07 and Sport-Club Freiburg at Home Deluxe Arena on September 05, 2026 in Paderborn, Germany. (Photo by Christof Koepsel/Getty Images)
Matanovic can create some space for himself to get some strikes in at goal. He has the vision to engineer the odd chance for his teammates in the final third and is a good dribbler with the ball at his feet.
The Croat talent can contribute by scoring and creating a handful of important goals for his team. Matanovic can even use his strong 1.94m frame to win a few 50-50 duels for his side in the air. However, the jury is still out on whether he can adapt to the high intensity of Premier League football if Man United manage to win the race for his services.
Matanovic would improve the quality of Michael Carrick's frontline. He is capable of challenging for a regular starting spot at Old Trafford in the coming years.
At 23, Matanovic has his best years ahead of him, which makes him a good choice for Man United to consider in 2027. He will also help the Red Devils compete across all fronts in the future. Thus, Carrick would be wise to snap him up next summer.
