Jean‑Philippe Mateta: Man United eye January swoop for prolific French striker | OneFootball

Fabrizio Romano recently claimed that Manchester United are actively seeking an attacking signing this winter.

The transfer guru emphasised that, despite missing out on Manchester City‑bound Antoine Semenyo, United’s plans for the window remain unchanged.

The Red Devils remain determined to reinforce their frontline, a move that would, in turn, pave the way for Joshua Zirkzee’s switch to AS Roma.

With that out of the way, for those curious about which attacker United might target, Pete O’Rourke has now offered a significant hint.

United return for Mateta

Via Football Insider, O’Rourke reports:

“Manchester United have turned their attention to a January move for Crystal Palace striker Jean‑Philippe Mateta.”

United tried to sign Mateta last summer but failed to pull off a deal, though they went ahead and signed Benjamin Sesko.

Mateta opportunity

Now, with the 28‑year‑old entering the final 18 months of his contract and extension talks stalling, a transfer opportunity is beginning to emerge.

Interestingly, O’Rourke claims Palace have already begun assessing potential replacements as they brace for the Frenchman‘s possible departure.

With the Eagles preparing for life without him, it will be fascinating to see how they respond should United test their resolve with a cheeky bid this winter.

The Zirkzee replacement

Mateta may not be hitting the heights of last season, when he scored 17 goals, but he has still managed nine this term. Expectations were that he would build on last year’s tally, yet his output has dipped.

Even so, as a classic number nine, Mateta offers physical presence, aerial strength, and clinical finishing. He could prove the ideal replacement for Zirkzee and a strong alternative to Sesko. His arrival would push the Slovenian striker to his limits, potentially drawing the best out of him.

A reliable goalscorer takes United to the next level

United, notably, are already among the Premier League’s top scorers, with only Manchester City and Arsenal ahead of them.

Yet the absence of a reliable, out‑and‑out striker continues to hold them back. Sesko and Zirkzee’s struggles in front of goal have been a major stumbling block, and Mateta could be the solution to that problem.

Featured image Julian Finney via Getty Images

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