Igor Matanovic, the Freiburg striker linked with Manchester United, has revealed there has been 'no contact' regarding a last-gasp move to the Premier League. The forward was reported to be a target for the Red Devils earlier this summer, with Michael Carrick reportedly keen on bolstering his attacking options.
Matanovic plays down exit talk
Tottenham were also reportedly among the admirers of the Bundesliga forward. However, Matanovic appears to be paying little attention to a potential late move away from Freiburg.
Speaking to reporters, he said: "As far as I’m concerned, I’m currently at Freiburg. There has been absolutely no contact with anyone from my side."
He added: "The first thing people think of is that success is due to hard training and that’s largely true. But I believe that football is much more a mental game. If you’re clear-headed, not overthinking, and not hesitating, then that’s how things happen. If I’m overthinking, starting to brood, and lacking self-confidence, then it doesn’t work."
Career journey and form
Matanovic began his career with St Pauli before spells with Eintracht Frankfurt and Karlsruher. He joined Freiburg last summer and scored 15 goals across an impressive debut campaign. He has also scored three goals in as many games this term.
Asked if joining Freiburg was one of the best choices of his career, he replied: "Yes, of course. The answer is obvious. It was a huge step. Thanks to Freiburg, I also made it to the World Cup, which was a tremendous success for me as a young player."
United's striking options
Matanovic’s comments come amid a summer of change for United’s striking options. Rasmus Hojlund completed a permanent move to Napoli following a successful loan spell in Serie A. Joshua Zirkzee could follow his former teammate to Italy, with Juventus expected to beat the deadline and sign the Dutchman on loan.
Should he depart, Michael Carrick would be left with Matheus Cunha and Benjamin Sesko as United’s central striking options for the remainder of the campaign. While a striker does not appear to be at the top of the Red Devils’ wish list as it stands, they could still be busy on deadline day, with a left-back remaining their priority after being linked with Barcelona's Alejandro Balde, while Racing Santander’s Jorge Salinas remains an option.
