‘Most likely destination’: Journo shares what he’s now hearing about Man Utd’s pursuit of 64 G/A PL attacker

In the event Jean-Philippe Mateta decides to call time on his Crystal Palace tenure in 2026, his ‘most likely destination’ is said to be Serie A.This comes after Manchester United were linked with Mateta over the summer amid their drawn-out search for a proven centre-forward.United’s interest in Mateta unlikely to materialiseMateta has flourished under Oliver Glasner. (Photo by George Wood/Getty Images)They eventually opted for a younger – and much more costly – striker in the form of Benjamin Sesko, though speculation has suggested they’ve retained their interest in the Frenchman in case an opportunity presented itself.However, journalist Ben Jacobs has now affirmed that Mateta, who’s scored 45 goals and registered nine assists in five-and-a-half seasons at Selhurst Park, would prefer to ply his trade in the Italian top flight.What’s on the horizon for the Reds next year?Maguire is about to enter the final five months of his contract. (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)As for United’s plans in 2026, fans are well aware that a new midfielder is the utmost priority.Whether one will be brought in in the winter remains to be seen. If so, it’s more likely to be a loan or cut-price addition as opposed to a marquee signing, which will be on the agenda at the end of the season.When next summer rolls around, United, as things stand, will bid farewell to Casemiro, Harry Maguire, Tom Heaton and Tyrell Malacia, all of whom are out of contract in June 2026.Barring perhaps Heaton, who hasn’t made a competitive appearance since February 2023, replacements will be pursued to ensure Amorim isn’t left short heading into 2026/2027.INEOS do have the option of extending Casemiro’s tenure by an additional 12 months, although it would mean continuing to pay his extortionate £300k-a-week wages.Read more: Ex-Sporting Director confirms 17 G/A Man Utd man almost signed for Barcelona before OT move