According to a report by Graeme Bailey on TBR Football, Jean-Philippe Mateta is the subject of interest from Manchester United. The Red Devils have been scouring the market for a striker heading into the summer transfer window amid the frustrating displays of Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee. So, the Crystal Palace centre-forward has emerged as a target.
However, the Frenchman has dealt a blow to Manchester United’s prospects of signing him in the summer transfer window, as he is closing in on putting pen on a new long-term contract with Crystal Palace. So, the struggling Premier League giants must look elsewhere for a new striker in the coming weeks.
Jean-Philippe Mateta has come leaps and bounds since joining Crystal Palace from FSV Mainz 05. While the 27-year-old did not hit the ground running at the South London club, he has become a prolific striker since Oliver Glasner took over at Selhurst Park 18 months ago.
The French striker enjoyed another productive campaign in the 2024/25 season, contributing to 21 goals in 46 appearances across all competitions by finding the back of the net 17 times and providing four assists. So, it is hardly surprising that the Olympic silver medalist piqued the attention of several well-known clubs across Europe, including Manchester United.
Manchester United’s interest in Jean-Philippe Mateta is understandable. The Red Devils are keen on reinforcing their offensive unit by signing a striker in the summer transfer window, as Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee were wasteful in front of the goal in the 2024/25 season. So, the Crystal Palace centre-forward emerged as a viable target for Manchester United.
However, the Eagles have been keen on tying the 27-year-old Frenchman to a new contract for several weeks. Crystal Palace may succeed soon, as the two parties have advanced talks over an improved deal, leaving Manchester United in limbo.
However, the Red Devils have no shortage of strikers on their wishlist, with recent reports linking them with Viktor Gyokeres, Hugo Ekitike, and Benjamin Sesko. So, it will be interesting to see who they turn to, with Mateta on the cusp of signing a new contract with Crystal Palace.
