Manchester United’s summer overhaul under Sir Jim Ratcliffe and new head coach Rúben Amorim is gaining traction, with the club aiming to reinforce its squad after a poor 2024/25 campaign.
Having already secured the services of Matheus Cunha from Wolves to inject creativity and dynamism into the attack, United are now turning their attention to the acquisition of a proven striker.
One name has quickly risen to the top of their list — Crystal Palace’s Jean-Philippe Mateta.
According to TEAMtalk, the 27-year-old French striker is drawing serious interest from United, who view him as a player capable of making an instant impact.
Palace have taken steps to protect their asset by extending Mateta’s contract until 2027, but they remain open to offers in the region of £25–30 million — a price that looks increasingly like a bargain when weighed against other recent deals in the market.
For Palace, the idea of selling their FA Cup-winning forward might seem like a setback, especially under Oliver Glasner’s new direction, but the business reality could dictate otherwise.
Meanwhile, European giants Juventus and AC Milan are also tracking Mateta closely. Juventus are said to see him as an ideal and more cost-effective alternative to Victor Osimhen.
Milan, entering a new phase under the returning Massimiliano Allegri, are also considering him to spearhead their revamped attack.
With such heavyweight competition, United must act with urgency to avoid losing out — something they’ve been guilty of in recent transfer windows.
Amorim’s tactical plans are clearly shaping the club’s transfer decisions.
The arrival of Cunha signals a desire for attacking versatility and fluid movement, and Mateta would bring complementary qualities.
Known for his physical presence, sharp movement, and clinical finishing, Mateta represents an experienced option capable of leading the line immediately — something Rasmus Højlund, despite his potential, has yet to consistently provide.
In the 2024/25 season, Mateta notched 17 goals across competitions and played a pivotal role in Palace’s FA Cup triumph.
His 6’4″ frame and work rate make him an ideal fit for Amorim’s pressing system, where a high-intensity, direct style demands a striker who can battle defenders, finish with precision, and connect play efficiently.
Compared to inflated deals like Liam Delap’s £30 million move to Chelsea or the £65 million valuation of Ivan Toney, Mateta’s reported price seems a shrewd piece of business — especially for a club like United, who have struggled to consistently score in crucial matches.
The urgency surrounding this deal cannot be overstated. United’s history of hesitation — seen in failed pursuits of Jude Bellingham, Frenkie de Jong, and more recently Delap — has become a source of frustration among fans.
If United continue to “explore options” while Juventus or Milan finalize terms, it will be yet another painful reminder of the club’s indecision in the market.
Supporters are eager to see Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s vision materialize through decisive, strategic moves.
Amorim appears to know the type of players needed for his system. The onus is now on the board to act with the same clarity.
Jean-Philippe Mateta may not have the star power of some big-name forwards, but his form, price, and fit make him an incredibly smart and pragmatic target — the kind that could quietly but effectively elevate United’s rebuild.
