'/%3e%3cdefs%3e%3clinearGradient%20id='prefix__paint0_linear_4737_37157'%20x1='3.018'%20y1='23.6'%20x2='44.925'%20y2='24.977'%20gradientUnits='userSpaceOnUse'%3e%3cstop%20stop-color='%231CB7FF'/%3e%3cstop%20offset='.502'%20stop-color='%232FF58B'/%3e%3c/linearGradient%3e%3c/defs%3e%3c/svg%3e)
Manchester United consider January move for Crystal Palace striker
Sep 30 2026 11:19 · By onefootball.com · 3 Reads
Manchester United are considering Jean-Philippe Mateta as they assess their attacking options ahead of the January transfer window.
The Crystal Palace striker has emerged as a potential target for United director of football Jason Wilcox, with the club looking for greater competition for Benjamin Sesko. TEAMtalk reports that Mateta’s representatives have also made contact with United as the 29-year-old explores his options.
Mateta has been looking for a move away from Palace for some time, with his current contract due to expire next summer. That could make January an important point for the Eagles, who would otherwise risk losing the France international on a free transfer.
United’s interest comes amid concerns over their options behind Sesko. The Slovenia international has been dealing with a recurring shin problem, while Joshua Zirkzee’s future at Old Trafford is also uncertain.
Mateta’s Premier League experience is understood to be one of the factors attracting United. He has scored 62 goals in 203 appearances for Palace, having established himself as a regular source of goals since joining the club permanently.
The Frenchman has made just one appearance for Palace so far this season, according to TEAMtalk, further adding to the uncertainty surrounding his position at Selhurst Park.
A January move would nevertheless depend on Palace’s valuation and United’s wider plans for their forward line. The Eagles could also have an interest in Zirkzee, with the Dutchman reportedly among the players United could look to move on during the winter window.
There is no suggestion at this stage that United have made a formal offer for Mateta. Instead, he is one of several attacking options being assessed as the club considers how best to strengthen its squad midway through the season.
With Mateta approaching the final months of his contract, however, his situation could become one to watch when the January window opens.
Read more – Real Madrid consider move for Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk
See also – PFA chief defends Cole Palmer amid concerns over football calendar
Follow the Football Faithful on Social Media:
Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube | TikTok