Manchester United reportedly hold a strong interest in signing Crystal Palace forward Jean-Philippe Mateta, as per TEAMtalk.
The 29-year-old moved to Selhurst Park from German side Mainz on loan in January 2021 before the deal became permanent the following year.
The Frenchman has enjoyed great success with the Eagles in recent years, winning a FA Cup, Community Shield and Conference League titles. He has even showcased his productivity in the Premier League, scoring more than 15 goals in the last three consecutive campaigns.
However, with Crystal Palace struggling under new manager Pierre Sage this season, Mateta has displayed below-average performances.
Having proven his worth in club football, Mateta secured his place in France’s World Cup squad this summer. However, following his recent struggles, Les Bleus’ new manager Zinedine Zidane didn’t select Mateta in the squad for the September/October international fixtures.
Now, TEAMtalk state that Mateta has been keen on leaving Crystal Palace to take the next step in his career, and the Eagles are ready to sell him in January to avoid losing him for free next summer.
Man Utd hold a strong interest in Mateta as they want a new striker following Benjamin Sesko’s recent persistent shin problem. On the other hand, Joshua Zirkzee has struggled to find his feet in the Premier League since joining from Bologna.
Mateta to Man Utd
Mateta is valued at around £25m by Transfermarkt and has entered the final few months of his current contract. So, the South London club are likely to let him leave in a cut-price deal.
However, the report state that Nottingham Forest are also interested in Mateta despite signing Liam Delap from Chelsea last summer. Therefore, United will have to overcome stiff competition to seal the deal.
Other European clubs and Saudi Pro League teams are also in this race, but he is prioritising staying in the Premier League.
Mateta is a 6ft 4in tall right-footed striker. He is strong, good in the air, can hold up the play, is efficient in finishing off his chances, and works hard without possession.
The Crystal Palace star is an experienced Premier League-proven striker and is currently at the prime stage of his career. Therefore, he might be a shrewd acquisition for Man Utd should they eventually manage to secure his services.
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