Manchester United are reportedly exploring the possibility of signing Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta, as per Football Insider.
The Red Devils decided to reinforce the striker position by purchasing Benjamin Sesko from RB Leipzig last year. He showed glimpses of his qualities in his debut Premier League campaign, scoring 12 goals and registering a solitary assist across all competitions.
However, he has been struggling with fitness problems in recent months and is set to remain sidelined until around January due to his recent shin injury.
So, Michael Carrick currently has Joshua Zirkzee as the only available striker option. However, the Dutchman has failed to break into Carrick’s starting line-up.
Instead, Bryan Mbeumo, who is a left-footed right-winger by trait, has been playing as an auxiliary striker. So, it appears United are considering purchasing a new No.9.
Football Insider state that Man Utd are exploring the possibility of signing Mateta, with Crystal Palace ready to sell him in January to avoid losing him for free next summer.
However, there are concerns about his character as he has been pushing hard to leave the Eagles in recent months to take the next step in his career.
Mateta to Man Utd
Mateta, valued at around £25m by Transfermarkt, is an old-fashioned striker. He is strong, good in the air, can hold up the play and possesses a poacher’s instinct inside the box. Moreover, he is efficient at taking penalties and works hard without possession.
Since moving to Selhurst Park from Mainz, the 29-year-old has enjoyed great success, winning a FA Cup, Conference League and Community Shield over the years.
He has netted more than 15 goals in the last three consecutive campaigns but has struggled to showcase his best this season, scoring a solitary goal in six appearances across all competitions.
Nevertheless, he is a Premier League-proven striker and is currently at the prime stage of his career. Therefore, Mateta might be a shrewd acquisition for Man Utd should they purchase him.
However, it is going to be interesting to see whether the Old Trafford club eventually make a concrete approach to secure his services in January or next summer.
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