Manchester United have been urged to try their luck in pursuit of Crystal Palace frontman Jean-Philippe Mateta, who has yet to commit his long-term future to the club despite being in contract talks for several months.
It’s no secret that INEOS chiefs are now desperately scouring the market for a suitable striker addition in time for 2025/2026 getting underway in less than a month’s time.
United have already missed out on a whopping three targets in the window thus far: Liam Delap when he signed for Chelsea, Hugo Ekitike before he made the move to Liverpool, and Viktor Gyokeres when he officially sealed his desired switch to Arsenal over the weekend.
As a result, forwards that are not only available but also valued at affordable prices are few and far between this summer.
Why United should test Palace’s resolve for Jean-Philippe Mateta
That’s why Manchester Evening News’ George Smith has implored the Red Devils board to go all-out for Mateta in hopes of taking advantage of his uncertain future at Selhurst Park.
The 28-year-old has enjoyed spells of particularly eye-catching over the last two seasons; he notched 16 goals and six assists in 35 Premier League appearances in 2023/2024, followed by 14 goals and two assists last time out. Outside the top flight, he played a key role in Palace reigning triumphant in the FA Cup final to secure their first-ever major trophy.
“Mateta ticks plenty of boxes. He is a defender’s worst nightmare, both with the ball at his feet and in the air,” says Smith.
Mateta hopes to oversee an even more prolific 25/26 term for one key reason
To make matters more intriguing for United, Mateta is said to be dreaming of a World Cup call-up next summer, which would see him potentially represent France for the first-ever time at senior level outside of last year’s Olympics.
Whilst he could indeed be rewarded for a stellar campaign with the Eagles, representing a club like United, the 20-time champions of England, throughout their 2025/2026 rebuild may aid his case considerably more – the likes of Leny Yoro, who’s awaiting his debut for France, will also be aiming to impress Didier Deschamps.
