Matija Frigan Joins Parma In €10m Deal

Parma have agreed to sign striker Matija Frigan from Westerlo for just under €10 million, beating Hull City to his signature.

WHAT HAPPENED?

The 22-year-old Croatian forward was close to joining Hull City after strong interest from the English club, but Parma moved quickly and finalized negotiations with Westerlo. The striker is expected to travel to Italy for his medical within the next 24 hours.

Frigan scored 14 goals and provided four assists in 41 matches last season for Westerlo, showing his quality in the Belgian League. He can play both as a centre-forward and on the right wing, and was previously called up to the Croatia national team, although he has not yet played for the senior side.

WHY DOES THIS MOVE MATTER?

Parma have strengthened their attack after the recent sales of Ange-Yoan Bonny to Inter and Dennis Man to PSV Eindhoven. Last season, the club fought hard to remain in Serie A and finished 16th, just above the relegation zone. Following the transfer of Bonny, Parma will receive approximately €23 million, along with an additional €2 million in bonuses, which will be crucial for reinvestment into the squad according to reports.

The arrival of Frigan shows the club’s intent to build a competitive squad and avoid another tough relegation battle. The transfer fee paid to Westerlo is the biggest for Parma so far this window. Westerlo, who signed Frigan for €5.5 million in 2023, have already moved to replace him with Nacho Ferri.

WHAT NEXT FOR PARMA AND FRIGAN?

Frigan will join Parma for preseason training and could make his debut in their opening Serie A match against Juventus, who finished 4th last season and has qualified for the Champions League.

Frigan’s goals and versatility may prove vital in Parma’s quest to stay clear of the bottom three. Hull City, who missed out on the deal, remain focused on alternative options in the striker market as they prepare for their second match in the Championship, where they finished 8th last season, just two points off the playoff spots.