Manchester United have now entered the race to sign Crystal Palace forward Jean-Philippe Mateta ahead of next season.
Jean-Philippe Mateta was expected to leave the club in the recently concluded transfer window. But things did not go according to plan for him as a potential move collapsed. While he will continue at Crystal Palace for now, the French striker is expected to leave after the end of the season.
According to a report from Football Insider, Manchester United have also entered the race for the services of the 28-year-old. The Red Devils believe a Premier League-experienced campaigner like Mateta could do wonders for them.
After making a name for himself at FSV Mainz, Jean-Philippe Mateta joined the Eagles at the start of 2021. While he initially joined them on a season-long loan, the move was made permanent in the following summer. He has only gone from strength to strength since, and of late, he has been one of their mainstays.
Mateta had a sensational 2025/26 campaign, playing a big part in their FA Cup triumph. The Frenchman has carried that form into the season, and his performances have resulted in a lot of interest from across Europe.
Jean-Philippe Mateta’s failed AC Milan move
Amidst interest from the biggest clubs in Europe, Mateta pushed for a move away mid-season. The French international handed in a transfer request, and the Eagles were ready to cash in on him with just 18 months left on his deal.
Jean-Philippe Mateta was widely expected to leave the club. A move to AC Milan was on the verge of going through, but it eventually collapsed. The reason for the collapse is believed to be a medical issue; it might be a knee issue that has troubled him a lot.
Manchester United are plotting a raid on Crystal Palace
Despite the injury concern, Manchester United retain interest in Jean-Philippe Mateta. The Red Devils were linked with him last summer, and they even held talks regarding him last month. They could certainly return for the signature of the want-away star, who could be available for a bargain fee because he will only have 12 months left on his deal in the summer.
Manchester United are among a number of clubs that are keeping an eye on him. While Benjamin Sesko’s recent performances have pushed the requirement for a new striker down the pecking order, Mateta still remains quite high on United’s wishlist. The Red Devils have internally held talks about signing the Palace star, and it will be interesting to see if they actually make a move in a few months time.