Tottenham Enquire About Croatian Goal Machine Igor Matanović for January

Tottenham Hotspur have reportedly made an enquiry about Freiburg striker Igor Matanović ahead of the January transfer window, as Roberto De Zerbi’s side continue to look for additional goals.

The Croatian international has emerged as one of the most interesting young strikers in the Bundesliga after a prolific start to the 2026/27 campaign. His performances have attracted attention from several clubs in England, with Tottenham and Manchester United among the teams reported to have made enquiries.

For Spurs, the interest comes at a time when goals have been difficult to find. Tottenham have made a significant investment in their squad, but their early-season attacking output has created questions about whether another natural No.9 could be required when the January market opens.

For Cambodian football fans following the Premier League, Matanović is a name worth watching closely over the next few months.

Igor Matanović’s Explosive Start at Freiburg

The biggest reason behind Tottenham’s interest is simple: Matanović is scoring goals.

The 23-year-old striker has registered six goals and two assists in seven appearances across all competitions for Freiburg so far this season, according to the latest Football365 report. He also scored 15 goals and supplied four assists in 50 appearances during the 2025/26 campaign.

That represents a significant development for a forward who is beginning to establish himself as an important attacking player in Germany.

Matanović offers more than simply finishing ability. His physical profile gives him another dimension as a traditional centre-forward, allowing him to compete aerially, hold up the ball and provide a target for direct passes.

That combination could be particularly attractive to Tottenham.

Why Tottenham Are Looking at Another Striker

Tottenham’s reported interest comes after a major summer of recruitment.

Spurs spent more than £300 million during the summer transfer window, strengthening several areas of the squad. However, the club’s early Premier League results have exposed a problem in front of goal.

According to the latest Football365 report, Tottenham have scored only two goals in their opening five Premier League matches and sit at the bottom of the table with two points.

That attacking problem explains why the club could consider another striker despite already having several forward options.

Richarlison does not appear to be part of De Zerbi’s plans, while Dominic Solanke remains an important option but has previously dealt with fitness problems. Omar Marmoush has also joined the attacking group, but Matanović would provide a different type of threat.

Rather than relying entirely on pace or movement between the lines, the Croatian can give Spurs a more physical focal point.

What Makes Matanović Different?

Matanović stands out because of his size and physical strength.

The Freiburg forward has been described as a tall target man who can offer something different from Tottenham’s existing attacking options. Transfer journalist Ben Jacobs has highlighted his ability to provide a different profile in the Spurs attack.

That could make him particularly useful against Premier League teams that defend deep.

A traditional No.9 can occupy central defenders, compete for crosses and create space for attacking midfielders and wide players. For a manager looking for additional ways to break down stubborn opposition, having that option on the bench or in the starting XI can be valuable.

Matanović’s physicality could also make him useful during set pieces, an area where height and aerial ability can create additional attacking opportunities.

Tottenham Have Already Made An Enquiry

The latest development is more significant than simply being linked with the player.

Football365 reports that transfer journalist Ben Jacobs has confirmed Tottenham have already made an enquiry about Matanović. Manchester United have also reportedly asked about the Croatia international.

However, an enquiry should not be confused with a formal transfer bid.

Jacobs has also indicated that Freiburg would be reluctant to allow Matanović to leave during the middle of the season. That could make a January deal considerably more complicated.

Freiburg have little obvious reason to weaken their squad halfway through the campaign, particularly while Matanović is producing goals regularly.

This means Tottenham could face a difficult negotiation if they decide to pursue the striker seriously.

How Much Could Matanović Cost?

Earlier reports suggested Freiburg could demand around €35 million to €40 million for Matanović if they were prepared to consider a January sale.

That figure would represent another significant investment for Tottenham after their huge summer spending.

The situation could become even more complicated if Matanović continues scoring at his current rate.

His current form has already attracted attention from Premier League clubs, and continued performances could strengthen Freiburg’s negotiating position.

For Tottenham, the question will therefore be whether they believe adding another striker in January is worth making another substantial financial commitment.

Manchester United Could Provide Competition

Tottenham are not the only Premier League club monitoring the Croatian.

Manchester United have also been linked with Matanović and have reportedly made their own enquiry.

That competition could make negotiations more difficult for Spurs.

At the same time, Matanović’s current form means his situation is likely to attract wider attention before January arrives.

The next three months could therefore be crucial for both the player and Freiburg.

If he maintains his scoring record, Tottenham may have to decide whether to move aggressively or wait until the summer.

What Could Happen in January?

At this stage, Tottenham’s interest should be viewed as an active situation rather than a confirmed transfer.

The latest report states that Spurs have made an enquiry, but there is no confirmed agreement between Tottenham and Freiburg.

The biggest obstacle could be Freiburg’s willingness to sell during the season.

Matanović is currently an important player for the German club, and his goalscoring form makes a January departure difficult to imagine without a substantial offer.

For Tottenham, however, the striker’s profile makes sense.

He is young, physically imposing, already producing goals in a major European league and capable of giving De Zerbi a different option in the final third.

Final Thoughts

Igor Matanović has quickly become one of the names to watch ahead of the January transfer window.

Tottenham have reportedly made an enquiry as they assess options for strengthening their attack, while Manchester United are also monitoring the Croatian striker.

His six goals and two assists in seven appearances this season have put him firmly on the radar of Premier League clubs, while his 15-goal campaign last season demonstrated that his current form is not entirely out of the blue.

Whether Tottenham can actually convince Freiburg to sell remains another question.

For Cambodian Spurs supporters, Matanović could become one of the most interesting names to follow as the January transfer window approaches. If his goals continue to arrive, the competition for his signature could become even stronger. ⚽

The January window is still some distance away, but Tottenham’s first enquiry suggests the club is already planning ahead.