Manchester United weigh up Jean-Phillipe Mateta move

Manchester United are monitoring Jean-Phillipe Mateta’s contract situation at Crystal Palace.

Mateta has entered the final 18 months of his deal at Selhurst Park with no public progress on a potential extension.

The 28-year-old is understood to be exploring his options, following an impressive period in South London.

Mateta has scored 38 goals in the Premier League over the last two-and-a-half seasons and made his debut for France in October. He’s since scored twice in three caps for Les Bleus and is bidding to make their World Cup squad.

Sky Sports are reporting that Manchester United are one of several clubs considering an approach, if Mateta becomes available. Palace are set to lose Marc Guehi as a free agent this summer and will not want a repeat for one of their top assets in 2027.

Jean-Philippe Mateta scores the first Premier League goal of 2026 pic.twitter.com/adrouCK0CE

— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) January 1, 2026

United view Mateta as an ideal option to complement Benjamin Sesko. The Red Devils have full trust in Sesko as their long-term number nine, despite a slow start for the 22-year-old, who has scored twice in 15 league appearances this season.

Mateta would offer a more experienced and Premier League proven option, while the need for another recognised centre-forward will increase if United qualify for Europe for next season.

He has also operated in a similar system at Crystal Palace. Oliver Glasner has used a 3-4-2-1 set-up, similar to Ruben Amorim’s preferred shape, at Selhurst Park.

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