Manchester United transfer news has taken another turn with Tottenham Hotspur joining the chase for SC Freiburg striker Igor Matanovic. FootballTransfers reported on September 23 that both Premier League clubs are monitoring the 23-year-old, while Ben Jacobs has confirmed their appreciation for his profile.
Michael Carrick reportedly admires Matanovic. Jacobs told GiveMeSport that Spurs could consider another striker if their goals continue to dry up. No January move has been agreed.
The Croatia international has scored six goals in seven matches for Freiburg this season. His league return stands at three goals in four Bundesliga appearances, while he has added two in the DFB-Pokal and one in Conference League qualifying. He has started five of those seven matches and collected three assists.
Matanovic caught Premier League attention last season after scoring 15 goals for Freiburg. Jacobs previously described him as a tall, physical forward with similarities to Benjamin Sesko, although Matanovic offers a more traditional target-man approach.
Manchester United transfer news: Could Igor Matanovic suit United?
For United, the logic starts with squad depth rather than a need for another first-choice striker. Benjamin Sesko remains the main centre-forward, yet his fitness has created concerns, while Joshua Zirkzee remains linked with a possible departure. FootballTransfers reports that United could revisit the striker market in January, particularly if Zirkzee leaves.
Matanovic would give Carrick a different option. At 1.94 metres, he can offer an aerial outlet, attack crosses and occupy centre-backs inside the box. That matters against Premier League sides that defend deep, because United can need another route when short combinations stop creating chances.
Still, his scoring rate should not hide the areas that require work. His passing and link play remain less convincing than his penalty-box work. England would demand quicker decisions, stronger combination play and greater consistency against organised defensive blocks.
United already spent heavily on Sesko, so another sizeable striker fee would need a purpose. Matanovic could provide physical depth, but the club would need to decide whether that profile complements Sesko or duplicates some strengths.
Could Tottenham make the stronger January case?
Spurs have a different reason to watch him. Jacobs said Tottenham are assessing another source of goals, while Richarlison’s future appears uncertain under Roberto De Zerbi. Dominic Solanke and Omar Marmoush give Spurs alternatives, yet Matanovic would bring a more pronounced aerial presence.
Spurs could use his size when opponents sit deep, while his penalty-area movement could give wide players a target. However, Freiburg would have little reason to make a January sale easy after losing a productive forward in mid-season.
Matanovic’s 2026/27 numbers make the interest understandable, with six goals from seven appearances, plus three assists, after 15 goals last season. Yet January recruitment rarely offers much room for adjustment. United and Tottenham would have to judge whether his current finishing can translate quickly enough to justify the cost and tactical changes.
For now, Jacobs’ comments establish interest rather than an advanced deal. Both clubs appreciate the striker, and Freiburg control his availability.
