Manchester United are understood to have identified Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta as their top target to lead the line at Old Trafford, according to TEAMtalk. The Red Devils are said to be preparing a concrete move for the 27-year-old, who has enjoyed a stellar season with Palace, helping the Eagles win the FA Cup.
A new centre-forward is reportedly the top priority for United following the signing of Matheus Cunha from Wolves, which has now been officially confirmed. The club had initially pushed to sign Ipswich Town striker Liam Delap, but with Chelsea now set to seal the £30m deal imminently, Ruben Amorim’s side are plotting a move for Mateta instead. TEAMtalk sources state that United are expected to make a concrete move in the coming days to explore the conditions of a potential deal.
Crystal Palace are reportedly willing to sell Mateta for a fee in the region of €30m (£25.2m) to €35m (£29.5m), a valuation that could be considered a bargain given the striker’s impressive form. Mateta’s contract with Palace is set to expire in 2027, as Palace have triggered the option to extend his current deal by another year. This could still mean they will be forced to consider bids, however. As TEAMtalk understands, United are poised to make a move for the French international in the near future, but must move quickly to beat the competition to his signature.
The TEAMtalk report also suggests that two European heavyweights, Juventus and AC Milan, are keen on signing Mateta. Juventus are said to be seriously considering a move for the striker, who they believe would fit their system. With Victor Osimhen off the table as a potential signing for Juventus, following the departure of sporting director Cristiano Giuntoli, Mateta is viewed as a more realistic and financially manageable solution for the Bianconeri. AC Milan are another club to watch, with the Rossoneri still considering Mateta as a possible option for the No. 9 position.
The race for Mateta is heating up, and United need to strike fast if they want to win the race. As TEAMtalk notes, the French international would certainly be an upgrade on Rasmus Hojlund, based on his 2024/25 form. A comparison of the two strikers’ stats reveals that Mateta has been in outstanding form, making him an attractive target for United.
In related news, Manchester United’s wages have been revealed, with the top 10 earners at Old Trafford listed. The Red Devils are also said to be interested in signing other targets, but it remains to be seen how they will navigate the complex world of transfer negotiations. One thing is certain, however: Manchester United are on the hunt for a new striker, and TEAMtalk has all the latest news and updates on the transfer front.
Source link
