Arjun Menon
| Prefer us on Google — see Tips.gg in Top Stories & Discover | Add on Google |
Manchester United are moving quickly to secure Jean-Philippe Mateta, targeting the Crystal Palace striker as a direct alternative to Benjamin Sesko once the January transfer window opens.
According to TEAMtalk, Manchester United will enter the winter market intent on adding firepower up front, with director of football Jason Wilcox naming the 29-year-old Frenchman as a leading target. The report notes United cannot ignore their lack of options up front and will intensify contact with Palace in January. Mateta remains a target for several Saudi Pro League clubs, but a move to Old Trafford holds genuine appeal for the forward. Aside from Saudi interest, recent reports have also linked him with Aston Villa and Tottenham, adding competition to United’s pursuit.
How Has Jean-Philippe Mateta Performed at Crystal Palace?
Mateta has grown into one of the Premier League’s most dependable strikers since arriving from FSV Mainz 05. Palace signed him on loan in January 2021 before making the move permanent that summer. Early progress was steady, and his output sharpened considerably under Oliver Glasner’s guidance.
The Frenchman has made more than 200 appearances for Palace, scoring 62 goals and providing 14 assists. Despite disruption for large stretches of the 2025/26 campaign, he still posted 16 goals and three assists across 50 outings. Interest in his signature has not cooled, with a cluster of clubs monitoring his situation closely.
Is a Move Across the Premier League on the Cards?
Manchester United explored a deal for Mateta last summer, though nothing materialized. The renewed interest underlines United’s need for sharper output in front of goal, given Joshua Zirkzee’s diminished role under Michael Carrick.
Carrick has turned to Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo as cover for Sesko rather than Zirkzee, even when the Slovenian has been sidelined. With Sesko battling fitness issues early in the 2026/27 season, signing a proven striker becomes a priority. Mateta’s physical presence and instinct in the box make him an appealing fit for that role.
Mateta already understands the physical demands of the Premier League, which should ease any transition to Old Trafford. Competition for his signature remains fierce, but his willingness to consider a move puts United in a strong position to win the race.
Keep following TipsGG for the latest on Manchester United’s January transfer plans.