Manchester United have received a boost in their pursuit of one transfer target as he is now considered “unlikely” to remain at his current club past this season.
While Manchester United have just overcome the odds to defeat Arne Slot’s title-winning Liverpool side away from home, serious improvements are still needed if Rúben Amorim is to keep his position at Old Trafford.
The new signings in the summer transfer window have already made a big difference, especially Senne Lammens, who continued his good run of form in just his second United appearance at Anfield. However, there are still clear holes in the squad.
United’s biggest problem is in central midfield, as that has been where the Red Devils have lost so many games this season. Casemiro and Manuel Ugarte – despite impressing at Anfield – have both struggled playing next to Bruno Fernandes, with Kobbie Mainoo forced to the bench.
Links to Carlos Baleba and Adam Wharton have continued after Deadline Day, but that has to be the priority for Director of Football Jason Wilcox in January, although he will also be looking for further attacking reinforcement if Joshua Zirkzee leaves the club.
Zirkzee has attracted significant interest from Italian and Premier League sides this season, with an eye on signing the Dutchman in January. The former Bayern Munich youngster is unhappy with his current game time and could leave on loan after Christmas.
United receive huge Mateta boost
Jean-Philippe Mateta has been in the form of his life since Oliver Glasner took charge at Crystal Palace; the Frenchman has already scored seven goals this season after 17 last campaign. His current contract expires in 2027 after Palace used their one-year extension option at the end of last year.
Mark Brus of Caught Offside has now reported that Mateta is “unlikely” to sign a new contract at Selhurst Park. United are among three Premier League sides with “strong interest” in the centre forward, with Newcastle United and Tottenham Hotspur also eyeing the centre forward.
One source said, “Mateta is one to watch for sure. A new contract doesn’t look likely, so they may well feel it’s a good time to cash in. Don’t be surprised if £40m gets a deal done.”
While £40 million could be better spent on a new midfielder, having an experienced alternative to Benjamin Šeško could be a brilliant option for Amorim. Mateta has already proved his value in a 3-4-2-1 Premier League side, while Šeško is still learning the ropes.
The French international has yet to indicate his preference, but could be looking for a move in the January window. If United continue to show real signs of improvement under Amorim, Mateta may favour an Old Trafford transfer over other options.
Is Mateta a smart move for United?
Last summer, before United signed Šeško, making a move for Mateta would have been a no-brainer, especially with Rasmus Hojlund’s late loan deal to Napoli. However, with Šeško now at the club, do United actually need Mateta?
On one hand, Mateta would come in and provide a certified goal threat through the middle, leaving the opposition defenders seriously concerned. Also, the Palace striker would be able to bring Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo into play with his excellent hold-up play.
However, United can’t really afford to spend £40 million on another striker when they just spent over £70 million on Šeško, especially when a new midfielder is needed so desperately.
If Zirkzee leaves on loan, another forward player would be needed at Old Trafford, unless Amorim chooses to promote Chido Obi to the first team, but the Dutchman could return for the following season, creating a situation where United have three senior strikers.
While Mateta would be a great addition, United should prioritise other areas of the squad in the January transfer window.
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