Manchester United intend to bring in another striker next summer to compete with 2025 signing Benjamin Sesko, and Jean-Philippe Mateta is among the names high on their shortlist. The Crystal Palace forward could become available at the end of the campaign if contract talks continue to stall.
Palace have been attempting to secure Mateta on a new deal, but discussions have yet to produce an agreement. The Frenchman is reportedly open to a fresh challenge, though the club remain hopeful of convincing him to stay at Selhurst Park.
According to Football Insider, Mick Brown has indicated that Palace are still pushing to reach a breakthrough. He stressed that Mateta is a key figure within the squad and that the club want to extend his contract as quickly as possible. Brown noted that wage demands are proving to be the main obstacle, with Palace unwilling to stretch beyond their internal limits to avoid setting a precedent for other players. He added that the outcome will largely depend on whether Mateta is willing to compromise or decides he would prefer a move elsewhere.
Manchester United would be an appealing destination if he opts for a change. With Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo already strengthening United this season, bringing in another proven Premier League forward in 2026 would follow the club’s recent recruitment trend. Should Mateta decline a new deal, Palace may have little choice but to consider a cut-price sale.