Despite encountering issues with agents, Manchester City remains keen on securing the services of 20-goal wonderkid Matija Popovic on a free transfer, according to Christian Falk, BILD’s Head of Football.
Initially, AC Milan appeared close to securing the Serbian talent, seemingly placing Manchester City’s Director of Football, Txiki Begiristain, at a disadvantage.
Calciomercato’s Daniele Longo reported dissatisfaction from AC Milan as negotiations with Popovic’s representatives reached a critical point, leading to the collapse of the deal. Despite Popovic’s desire to join the Rossoneri, complications arising from the agents’ demands left AC Milan in a state of ambivalence.
Christian Falk asserts that Manchester City, along with Bayern Munich and Napoli, has re-entered discussions for Popovic, while AC Milan is reportedly no longer in contention. Popovic, often compared to Michu, is regarded as one of Europe’s most promising talents, having scored 20 goals in 24 games in the Kadetska Liga during the 2022–2023 season. The young striker declined a new contract offer from Partizan, becoming a free agent.
Notably, Popovic’s transfer to Manchester City does not have an immediate deadline, given his free-agent status after the expiration of his Partizan contract. This flexibility allows Manchester City, Napoli, and Bayern Munich time to negotiate with the Serbian U17 international. However, the competition for Popovic’s signature adds urgency to the proceedings.
While AC Milan’s potential re-entry into the fray remains contingent on resolving issues with the teenager’s representatives, Manchester City faces competition from Napoli and Bayern Munich. The absence of a strict transfer window deadline for Popovic allows Begiristain and Manchester City the luxury of time to finalize the deal without external constraints.
As negotiations unfold, the outcome will depend on the ability of Manchester City to reach a verbal agreement with Popovic. If successful, Begiristain will have the flexibility to address any minor issues at his own pace.
The dynamic nature of the transfer market adds an extra layer of complexity to the pursuit of this young talent, leaving fans and football enthusiasts eagerly awaiting the resolution of the Popovic transfer saga.
