Manchester United have learned the asking price of one of their top striker targets.
Frustrating search
The Red Devils have spent all summer searching for a striker to take over starting responsibilities from Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee.
United were originally linked to Liam Delap but he opted for a move to Chelsea.
Viktor Gyokeres has agreed to go to Arsenal and Victor Osimhen seems like he will be on his way to Galatasaray.
United target Jean-Philippe Mateta
Another player that Ruben Amorim’s side have been linked with is Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta.
It was thought that the forward may want to stay at Palace to help them in Europe but this may have changed after they were demoted to the Conference League.
AC Milan interest
It has already been reported that Serie A sides Juventus and AC Milan carry an interest in the player but according to French outlet L’Equipe, Milan have made their first steps to sign him.
The paper states that “in search of a striker, AC Milan is interested in Crystal Palace’s Frenchman, Jean-Philippe Mateta, who is under contract in England until 2027.”
It is suggested that his involvement with the French national team in the Olympics has given him the hunger to be involved in the World Cup squad next summer.
The forward reportedly “has formed the conviction that this could possibly involve a move away from Crystal Palace this summer, as he aspires to join a more prestigious club.”
Consequently, Mateta is “reportedly attracted by the prospect of working under Massimiliano Allegri” and the Italian giants have “taken concrete steps” to sign the player.
Valuation problematic for Milan, could United swoop?
The French paper state that there is a fly in the ointment for Milan and that is that “the English club’s asking price—over €30 million has reportedly put off the Lombardy club, whose budget is limited.”
United were prepared to spend a similar amount on Delap, so if Mateta is truly available for this price, it could be an attractive and affordable proposition for the Red Devils.
He was on fire last season for Palace, scoring 17 goals in all competitions as he helped his side win the FA Cup.
Feature image Michael Regan via Getty Images
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Alex Browne
Alex is a huge Manchester United fan, inspired by greats of his homeland such as George Best, Harry Gregg and Norman Whiteside. Proud owner of such niche shirts such as Kleberson, Eric Djemba-Djemba and Gary Neville. Grew up pretending to be Ruud van Nistelrooy and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer in the back garden, with little success.
