Arsenal have reportedly joined the race to sign Freiburg striker Igor Matanovic, with Mikel Arteta continuing his search for another attacking option.
The Gunners were unable to land their preferred striker target during the summer transfer window, with Julian Alvarez ultimately remaining at Atletico Madrid. However, Arsenal are still looking to strengthen their forward line and could make another move in the coming transfer windows.
While high-profile names such as Erling Haaland have also been linked with the North London club, Arsenal are now reportedly considering Matanovic as another potential option.
Arsenal monitoring Igor Matanovic
According to reports, Arsenal have entered the competition for Matanovic, who has attracted attention from several Premier League clubs following his impressive start to the season.
The 23-year-old Freiburg forward has been in excellent form, scoring six goals and providing two assists in seven appearances across all competitions.
His performances have reportedly caught the eye of Manchester United and Chelsea, meaning Arsenal could face significant competition if they decide to pursue a deal.
Matanovic’s current form has made him an increasingly interesting option for clubs looking to add more firepower to their attack.
Freiburg unlikely to sell in January
Despite growing interest in their striker, Freiburg are reportedly not keen on allowing Matanovic to leave during the January transfer window.
The Bundesliga club are determined to retain the forward, particularly after his strong start to the campaign. As a result, any potential transfer could be more realistic during the summer.
Arsenal may therefore have to wait before making a serious move for the striker.
Arsenal still searching for a new striker
Arteta has continued to rely on players such as Kai Havertz in the centre-forward position, but there has been increasing debate over whether Arsenal need a more prolific goalscorer to compete for the biggest trophies.
Former Arsenal star Paul Merson has previously suggested that the Gunners may need a striker capable of producing around 20 league goals if they are to take the next step in their title ambitions.
Haaland remains an ambitious potential target, although a move from Manchester City to Arsenal would be extremely difficult to complete given the circumstances surrounding the two clubs.
Matanovic represents a very different type of opportunity and could provide Arsenal with another option to consider.
Arsenal face competition from Premier League rivals
With Manchester United and Chelsea also reportedly interested, Arsenal will not have an easy path to Matanovic’s signature.
Much could depend on how the striker performs over the remainder of the season. If he maintains his current scoring rate, his reputation and transfer value are likely to increase significantly.
For now, Freiburg appear determined to keep hold of their in-form forward, but Arsenal’s reported interest could develop into something more serious ahead of the summer transfer window.
