Manchester United have received encouragement in their pursuit of Jean-Philippe Mateta, with the Crystal Palace striker increasingly expected to leave Selhurst Park during the January transfer window.
United have monitored the 29-year-old for several months, but their need for another centre-forward has grown because of Benjamin Šeško’s injury problems. Mateta’s Premier League experience and contract situation could make him a realistic mid-season option.
Manchester United maintain interest in Jean-Philippe Mateta
Mateta’s representatives are understood to be working towards securing a suitable move, while Manchester United remain firmly interested in his situation.
Nottingham Forest, Everton and clubs elsewhere in Europe are also monitoring the striker. However, Mateta is believed to favour staying in the Premier League, which could benefit United’s prospects of completing a deal.
Jason Wilcox reportedly values Mateta’s experience in England’s top flight and his established scoring record. The striker is also understood to be open to a move to Old Trafford.
Mateta has scored in double figures in each of his last three Premier League seasons, making him a more proven option than several of the younger forwards United are considering.
He is one of four attackers on United’s shortlist, alongside Nicolò Tresoldi, Igor Matanovic and Dion Beljo.
Why Mateta could suit United’s January plans
United view Šeško as their long-term No 9, meaning another substantial investment in a young striker could create an unnecessary issue when the Slovenia international returns.
Mateta would offer a different profile. His physical strength, familiarity with Premier League defenders and ability to lead the line immediately could provide United with greater attacking depth without a lengthy period of adaptation.
His contract situation is also expected to make him considerably cheaper than Tresoldi, who is valued at around £42 million. The principal drawback for United would be Mateta’s age, with the forward unlikely to offer significant resale value at 29.
For a January signing, however, Mateta could provide a practical solution to United’s immediate need for reliable goals. If Palace are prepared to sell and the striker remains keen on a move to Old Trafford, he may emerge as one of the most attainable options available to the club.
