Manchester United and Arsenal battle for £50m-rated Bundesliga striker | OneFootball

Manchester United and Arsenal are monitoring Freiburg striker Igor Matanovic ahead of a potential move.

The 23-year-old has made an impressive start to the season, attracting attention from several Premier League clubs with his goalscoring form and all-round attacking qualities.

According to CaughtOffside, Manchester United have already discussed Matanovic internally, while Arsenal and Chelsea have also been sending officials to watch the striker in action. His performances have made him one of the more interesting attacking options to emerge from the Bundesliga.

Igor Matanovic attracts Premier League interest

Matanovic has scored six goals in his opening seven appearances across all competitions this season, continuing the progress he made during the previous campaign.

The Croatia international found the net 15 times for Freiburg last season, and his rapid improvement has convinced several clubs he could be ready for another step up.

Standing at 6ft 5in, Matanovic offers an imposing physical presence but also possesses the technical ability required to operate effectively at the highest level.

Arsenal could see him as an attractive option up front, especially after failing to add another striker this summer. His ability to combine his physicality with his link-up play could make him a useful alternative for the north London club.

Manchester United also have reason to consider the move, with their attacking department requiring greater depth and Matanovic potentially offering another option in the final third.

Matanovic could command £50m fee

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)

Freiburg are understood to value their striker at around £50 million after his impressive rise. His valuation has increased significantly, with the German club previously willing to consider offers closer to £30m.

It remains to be seen whether any of his Premier League admirers will make a formal approach, but continued strong performances could push his asking price even higher.