Everton are reportedly interested in a move for SC Freiburg’s talented striker Igor Matanovic ahead of the summer window.
According to Fussballdaten, Igor Matanovic is attracting interest from Everton ahead of the summer window. The Toffees are looking at a specific profile for the No. 9 role, and have identified the SC Freiburg man as the ideal addition, with a €25 million price point being mooted.
Freiburg made an important addition in Igor Matanovic from Eintracht Frankfurt last summer, and the move has already paid dividends. The Bundesliga side are battling for a European spot this term, and their Croatian striker has played a key role in their progress.
However, his journey at Freiburg could be short-lived, as there is strong demand for the profile he carries, with Everton keen. The report also names Brentford as a suitor, as the Croatian’s physical attributes, as well as other qualities, make him a Premier League-ready striker in many regards.
Everton are seen as one of the key suitors in the chase, with the report stating that a €25 million price point might be needed to prise him away from Freiburg. The Toffees are in a position to pay as much for a player that they might view as someone who would improve their current setup.
Freiburg are reportedly insisting that Matanovic may not be for sale, but the prospect of a sizeable offer for the €25 million-rated striker might change their stance. Everton might not be the only interested party in the equation, as others like Brentford could join the chase depending on whether they need to add a new striker in the summer.
Why Are Everton Targeting Igor Matanovic?
David Moyes seemingly has a preference for strikers and the kind of profile he sees fit for his side. For instance, he worked with Dominic Calvert-Lewin before, while he currently has Beto and Thierno Barry in the role, with all those names carrying a similar profile. There is interest in Beto from Serie A sides, and the likes of Matanovic could be viewed as a suitable replacement.
Matanovic could be well-suited to Everton given how Moyes likes his strikers, and at the price point mentioned for the €25 million-rated striker, he could prove to be a smart signing. It remains to be seen whether the reported interest materialises into a formal enquiry, as Freiburg’s stance will also prove important come the summer.
