Manchester United Open Talks for Crystal Palace’s Jean-Philippe Mateta as Amorim Plans Summer Transfer Strategy
Manchester United have initiated discussions to sign Crystal Palace forward Jean-Philippe Mateta, as new manager Ruben Amorim has already begun planning for significant squad reinforcements ahead of the summer transfer window.
The Red Devils were active during January’s transfer window, bringing in Patrick Dorgu from Lecce and young talent Ayden Heaven from Arsenal. However, these moves appear to be just the beginning of a more comprehensive recruitment strategy planned for the summer.
According to French publication L’Equipe, Manchester United have already opened preliminary talks to acquire Mateta, though Crystal Palace have set a substantial asking price of £40 million for their in-form striker. This potential acquisition reflects United’s desire to bolster their attacking options following concerns about Rasmus Hojlund’s goal production.
United’s Striker Search Highlights Concerns Over Current Attacking Options
Manchester United’s interest in Mateta comes amid ongoing issues with their forward line:
- Rasmus Hojlund, who joined for £72 million from Atalanta, has struggled this season with just six goals across all competitions
- The Danish striker has netted only two Premier League goals in 22 appearances
- Mateta, by comparison, has scored 15 goals this season, following 19 across all competitions last term
- The 27-year-old Frenchman is under contract at Palace until 2027
This stark contrast in productivity has clearly caught the attention of United’s recruitment team, who appear to view the Palace forward as a potential solution to their goalscoring woes.
Mateta’s form has been particularly impressive considering Crystal Palace’s position in the Premier League table. His ability to produce consistently for a mid-table side suggests he could thrive with the increased service he would likely receive at Old Trafford.
| Player | Goals 2023/24 Season | Goals 2022/23 Season |
|---|---|---|
| Jean-Philippe Mateta | 15 (all competitions) | 19 (all competitions) |
| Rasmus Hojlund | 6 (all competitions) | 16 (all competitions) |
The Palace striker is currently sidelined after a nasty collision with Millwall goalkeeper Liam Roberts during a recent match, which resulted in Roberts receiving a red card for the reckless challenge. Despite this setback, Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner provided a positive update on Mateta’s recovery:
“Mateta is doing well,” Glasner confirmed. “He is at home and recovering well. He had no fractures or concussion and healing from the huge wound is going as we expected. If everything goes how we wish, he will be available against Fulham in their FA Cup quarter-final on 29 March.”
United’s pursuit of Mateta represents a significant shift in their transfer approach under Amorim’s guidance, focusing on proven Premier League talent rather than unproven prospects from foreign leagues.
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