Man Utd Plot January Move for Crystal Palace Striker Jean-Philippe Mateta

United Consider Cut-Price Striker Deal

Manchester United have reportedly identified Crystal Palace forward Jean-Philippe Mateta as a January target, according to TEAMtalk. The 29-year-old is said to be keen on a switch to Old Trafford, with his contract due to expire at the end of the season.

Why United Need Another Centre-Forward

United currently rely on Benjamin Sesko and Joshua Zirkzee as their specialist options up front. Zirkzee has struggled to make an impact in the Premier League since arriving from Bologna, while Sesko, who showed promise last season, has been hampered by fitness problems this term.

Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo can cover through the middle, although both are more effective out wide. TEAMtalk claim the club are prepared to cash in on Zirkzee next year, which would leave a vacancy to fill.

Mateta’s Representatives Make Contact

United’s interest is understood to be long-standing, and the Frenchman’s representatives have reportedly been in touch over a possible deal. Saudi Arabian clubs have also been credited with an interest, yet the player is said to prefer Manchester.

What Mateta Brings to Old Trafford

Standing 6ft 4in, Mateta is a right-footed striker who is strong in the air, dependable at holding up play and clinical in front of goal.

At Selhurst Park he has won the Conference League, FA Cup and Community Shield. Fitness issues have limited his involvement this season, but his Premier League goalscoring record speaks for itself. Transfermarkt values him at around £26m.

Is a January Move the Right Call?

Mateta looks a relatively low-risk addition, and at 29 he is in his prime. With his deal winding down, Palace may prefer to sell in January rather than lose him for nothing, which could reduce the price.

The alternative is waiting until the summer and signing him on a free transfer. That would save a fee, but it leaves United short of an experienced finisher for the second half of the campaign. Personally, acting now seems the bolder and more sensible option.