HERE WE GO: Manchester United have completed their second summer signing of the season,as £80m biggest prospect in Europe set to be announced Today as new Manchester United player
Manchester United are ‘in the running’ to sign Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta this summer, according to L’Equipe.
The Red Devils are planning to bolster their striking department during the next transfer window.
Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee have misfired upfront. Manager Ruben Amorim may want an upgrade on the duo.
L’Equipe now claim that United are ‘in the running’ for Mateta and have ‘positioned themselves’ to sign him from the Eagles.
The 27-year-old will enter the last year of his contract with Palace in July. He has yet to consider a renewal at the London club.
Mateta will wait for concrete proposals before making a final decision.
The striker is aware that the 2025/26 campaign could make or break his dream of playing for France at next year’s World Cup.
United should purchase Mateta instead of Delap
The Frenchman had a slow start to his Palace career, but he has become a quality striker under the tutelage of Oliver Glasner.
Mateta has netted 36 goals from the start of last season, with 17 of those this campaign.
He has an impressive shot-to-goal conversion rate of 21 percent and has also caught the eye with his hold-up play and high pressing.
In our view, the Red Devils should pursue a deal for Mateta, who has good Premier League experience with 114 appearances. He is at the peak of his playing career.
United are also looking at Ipswich Town’s Liam Delap, who has netted 12 goals this season, but his inexperience could be a drawback.
The 22-year-old has had just one season at the top level of English football. He may struggle to handle the pressure of expectations.
Rasmus Hojlund arrived with a similar reputation from Atalanta, but the Dane has looked out of sorts in his second year at United.
Hence, the club should explore a deal for Mateta, who is valued at £40 million by Palace.
He could be signed for less, with his contract expiring in just over 12 months.
