Man United are in the race to sign Premier League striker – Report | OneFootball

Mateta Future Under Spotlight as Man United Circle

Manchester United are firmly in the hunt for Crystal Palace striker Jean Philippe Mateta, with growing indications that the forward is ready to seek a fresh challenge. Caught Offside revealed that Palace had been confident of securing a new contract for Mateta, but that belief has since weakened, which has placed several ambitious clubs on alert.

The France international has been a key figure at Selhurst Park, contributing goals, work rate and presence up front. His progression into the French national squad and his influence in Palace’s recent success has increased his market value. As reported, “Palace had hoped to tie him down to a new contract, but I think there’s a growing realisation now that the player is unlikely to engage further in talks,” one source said.

Growing Transfer Interest

Manchester United are not alone in their admiration of Mateta. Newcastle United and Tottenham Hotspur are also monitoring developments closely as they weigh up their attacking options for the upcoming transfer window. A second source quoted in the report added, “Mateta is one to watch for sure. A new contract doesn’t look likely, so they may well feel it’s a good time to cash in. Don’t be surprised if £40m gets a deal done.”

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United have been evaluating striking options due to the inconsistent output of Benjamin Sesko. An internal United perspective shared within the report suggested he would be viewed as an upgrade and offer more cutting edge in the final third. The appeal for Newcastle and Spurs is similar, with both clubs expected to refresh their forward lines.

What Makes Mateta an Attractive Target

Mateta has demonstrated resilience and maturity during his Premier League journey. His movement, pace and clinical finishing have made him a standout performer in a Palace side that has often relied on his contributions in key moments. His hunger to challenge himself further and play European football makes this a pivotal point in his career.

One informed source told Caught Offside that the 28 year old is open to a January move if the right offer arrives. A fee close to £40 million would represent strong value for a player entering the peak years of his career. Clubs see his Premier League experience as an asset rather than taking a risk on unproven forwards from abroad.

Potential Next Step for Mateta

The forward will be assessing options based on European football, playing time and ambition. United can pitch their historic stature and recent successful acquisitions from Premier League rivals, with Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha joining last summer. Tottenham could promise a central role in Thomas Frank’s system, while Newcastle need a reliable and available striker to replace Alexander Isak over a full season.

Mateta appears prepared for the next step, and clubs know this may be the time to move before competition intensifies by summer.

Our View, EPL Index Analysis

Manchester United supporters can view this development with growing optimism. Jean Philippe Mateta feels like the kind of signing that symbolises forward progress under Ruben Amorim. The club have been seeking more aggression, intelligence and quality in the attacking third, and Mateta fits the profile of a modern centre forward who can stretch defences and convert chances.

Fans would welcome a striker who can link play, finish with conviction and compete physically with Premier League defenders. The mention in the report of Mateta being “open to a new challenge” will give supporters hope that Old Trafford is a realistic destination. While European football could influence his choice, belief remains that the United name still carries weight.

A price of around £40 million makes this a deal that feels accessible for United while leaving space in the budget for further additions. Mateta would not arrive as the only solution, but as a key contributor to a squad that is still being shaped to match Amorim’s tactical identity. If he is secured in January, fans would view it as decisive and positive planning for the long term.