MusaFormer Sunderland target Matija Frigan has admitted a move to Rangers would be “perfect” for his playing style as the Croatian striker considers his future after a strong season in Belgian football.
Frigan, 22, currently plays for KVC Westerlo and has been linked with a summer move from the Pro League after scoring 14 goals and providing four assists in all competitions last season. The striker was on Sunderland’s radar during the January transfer window, with the Black Cats reportedly considering a loan move with an option to buy for £12.6m.
However, that deal never materialised as Westerlo decided to block Frigan’s departure after allowing Muhamed Gumuskaya and Adedire Mebude to leave earlier in the window. Frigan, now valued at around £6.5m, is attracting interest from Rangers, while Bundesliga side Hamburg are also said to be keen. Westerlo are currently managed by Issame Charai – the former Ibrox manager – who could play a role in the player’s next move.
Frigan spoke about the growing speculation on his return to his hometown club Rijeka at the end of the season. “Rangers? That style of league would suit me. I think I’m a player for that kind of football,” he told reporters in Croatia.
“I know the interest from the clubs, it’s good to hear and read things like that, but we’ll see. Nothing has been decided yet. Things are in the hands of my agent and when there’s something more concrete, we’ll know. We’ll weigh everything up and choose the best option.”
Frigan, who previously played for Rijeka before moving to Belgium, said he was in no rush to leave Westerlo but was open to a new challenge. “I’ve had a good season, some clubs have contacted me, but we’ll see what’s best.
“I can’t say I don’t like Belgium, quite the opposite, but a change of scenery is always good. Nothing is out of the question and we’ll see what happens in this transfer window. I’m not in a hurry and there’s a lot of interest in me. That’s something that all the players are happy about, of course…”
The striker also reflected on how Belgian football has helped shape his development. “I became a lot stronger in Belgium. Working on my physical preparation is 90 percent of the training in Belgian football. I can say that I’m a lot stronger mentally and physically.”
What did Matija Frigan say about Sunderland’s reported interest in him?
Reflecting on the January speculation, Frigan appeared to confirm Sunderland’s interest in him during an interview with Croatian publication Germanijak. He said: “I think [Sunderland’s interest] was serious. I’m not worried about it. People are following him, but I heard that there was talk at the club. I liked the idea, but when it didn’t go through, I removed it the next morning.”
Speaking this summer about the possibility of a move away from Westerlo at the end of the current campaign, he added: “The summer will come, maybe a new opportunity, but I have a solid contract, everything is decided by the club.”
Musa
