Manchester United are considering a January move for Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta as Michael Carrick seeks to add more firepower to his squad.
The 29-year-old has established himself as a proven Premier League goalscorer at Selhurst Park, while his contract situation could make him an appealing option when the transfer window reopens.
Manchester United explore January move for Jean-Philippe Mateta
United are assessing experienced forwards who could make an immediate contribution, with Benjamin Šeško currently unavailable. Mateta’s familiarity with English football would reduce the uncertainty involved in recruiting a striker from another league midway through the season.
The France international has only months remaining on his Crystal Palace contract and could leave for nothing next summer. That may encourage Palace to consider offers in January rather than risk losing a valuable player without a fee.
United are not the only club monitoring Mateta’s position. His performances in recent seasons have attracted interest from several leading sides, although remaining in the Premier League is understood to appeal to the striker.
Mateta would not represent a glamorous long-term signing, but he could provide physical presence, competition and cover for Šeško. His record at Palace has also shown that he can score consistently at Premier League level.
The principal issue for United would be the asking price. With Mateta’s contract approaching its final months, the club would be reluctant to pay a premium for a player who could become available for nothing next summer.
Should a reasonable agreement be reached, the Palace forward could offer Carrick an experienced and practical solution for the second half of the season.
