A Manchester United target has spoken out regarding a possible last-minute switch to the Premier League on deadline day as Michael Carrick looks to bolster his squad before the deadline
A Manchester United target has spoken out regarding a potential eleventh-hour switch to the Premier League.
Freiburg striker Igor Matanovic has been linked with a move to Old Trafford this summer, with Michael Carrick said to be eager to strengthen his forward line. However, the 23-year-old has revealed that he has had ‘no contact’ about a last-ditch move.
The Red Devils weren’t the sole Premier League outfit linked with a swoop for the attacker; Tottenham were also reportedly amongst his suitors. However, it seems that Matanovic is set to remain with the Bundesliga outfit.
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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.
“The first thing people think of is that success is due to hard training and that’s largely true,” he added. “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.”
Matanovic began his career with St Pauli before stints at Eintracht Frankfurt and Karlsruher. He moved to Freiburg last summer and netted 15 goals during an outstanding maiden season.
Matanovic also has three goals in as many matches this campaign. Asked if joining Freiburg was amongst the finest decisions of his career, he responded: “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.”
Matanovic’s remarks arrive during a summer of upheaval regarding United’s forward options. Rasmus Hojlund secured a permanent switch to Napoli after a fruitful loan stint in Serie A.
Joshua Zirkzee could well accompany his former colleague to Italy, with Juventus anticipated to beat the deadline and capture the Dutchman on loan. Should he leave, that would leave Michael Carrick with Matheus Cunha and Benjamin Sesko as United’s main striking choices for the rest of the season.
While a striker does not seem to be at the top of the Red Devils’ priorities at present, they could still be active on deadline day. A left-back remains their chief target having been connected with approaches for Barcelona’s Alejandro Balde, while Racing Santander’s Jorge Salinas continues as an alternative.