Manchester City have been linked with a sensational swoop for Serbian wonderkid Matija Popovic. Gianluca Di Marzio had previously reported that the youngster had agreed terms with AC Milan. But a recent report indicates that the European champions have come in late with a bid to secure the talented 17-year-old.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has reported that City are now trying to sign the Serbian wonderkid. Popvic’s contract is due to expire on December 31st and he will be available on a free transfer. Romano adds that Popovic attended Manchester City’s 3-2 win over Red Star Belgrade recently.
🚨🔵 EXCL: Manchester City are trying to hijack deal to sign Serbian 2006 born talent Matija Popović as free agent, talks ongoing.
🇷🇸 Popović was at Man City game in Belgrade last week.
🔴⚫️ AC Milan, in talks to sign Popović since October but nothing been signed/sealed yet. pic.twitter.com/u7ZgYjKKvH
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) December 20, 2023
Who is Matija Popovic?
Matija Popovic is a 6-foot-4 attacking player who can play multiple roles up front. He can play as a centre forward, left winger or an attacking midfielder as per transfermarkt.com. He has starred for the FK Partizan Belgrade under-19 side this season. In 25 appearances in the Kadestka Liga, he has scored 21 goals and added 5 assists.
As per footballtalentscout.net, Popovic is a talented technical player. He possesses immense technique, dribbling ability, and finishing ability. Given his young age and size, there is immense potential for the youngster to develop.
Summary
It would appear that Popovic would be initially be a signing for the Manchester City academy if a deal can be completed. Given the player’s immense talent and potential, he would almost find a place in City’s EDS side. Given he’s available on a free transfer if City can reach a deal with the Serbian wonderkid he could link up with the treble winners relatively quickly. With his eye for goal, Popovic could become a key player in a few years for Manchester City if he does make the move and progress through the famed City youth set-up.
It may become a story to watch in the next few weeks as Manchester City look set for a busy January transfer window.
