Manchester United’s hunt for firepower this summer is heating up faster than a Manchester derby.
With new manager Ruben Amorim looking to reshape his squad, the Red Devils are back in the market for a striker. And one Premier League star is quietly raising his hand — but only if the deal suits him.
Jean-Philippe Mateta, Crystal Palace’s towering forward, is reportedly eager to move to Old Trafford.
The catch? He’ll only push for the switch if he cannot agree on a new deal at Selhurst Park. It’s like waiting for a contract offer at the last minute of extra time — dramatic, risky, and very Premier League.
Amorim currently has Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee leading the line. Both have shown flashes but not enough to light up the Theater of Dreams.
Hojlund still has raw potential, while Zirkzee looks more comfortable outside the penalty box than inside it — not ideal when you’re wearing United’s famous number nine.
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How much Man United could pay to sign Mateta?
United have also shown strong interest in Matheus Cunha from Wolves.
But the Brazilian is seen more as a creative force behind the main striker. So, it’s no surprise that United are now casting serious eyes toward Mateta.
According to Give Me Sport, Mateta is ‘keen’ on joining United if a new Palace deal doesn’t materialize.
Palace are trying to tie him down with a fresh contract, as his current one runs until 2026. If talks stall, United could swoop in faster than a VAR check on a last-minute winner.
The Eagles would reportedly want around £40 million to part ways with the 27-year-old Frenchman. Mateta has netted 14 Premier League goals this season, which is twice the combined total of Hojlund and Zirkzee.
Not exactly Golden Boot territory, but in today’s market, it’s enough to make a few clubs sit up and take notice — especially a United side desperate to climb the table.
Sure, some fans might say signing a 27-year-old doesn’t match United’s new focus on youth. But when Alan Shearer calls someone a “nightmare” to play against, it might just be worth hitting ‘send’ on that transfer email.
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