United can now sign 15-goal star for £40m after entering talks with agents – report | OneFootball

Manchester United will likely invest in a new striker when the transfer window reopens.

The Red Devils have struggled in the final third this campaign. They have netted just 33 goals after 27 matches in the Premier League.

Rasmus Hojlund has not scored in his last 19 appearances. Joshua Zirkzee has shown promise but he is more comfortable as a no.10.

Manager Ruben Amorim may want an upgrade on the pairing. Mirror claim that United have opened talks with Jean-Philippe Mateta’s representatives over a summer transfer.

United will need to pay £40 million to prise the Frenchman away from Crystal Palace.

Mateta would be a good acquisition due to Premier League experience

The Red Devils have been linked with Viktor Gyokeres since Amorim’s appointment, but the striker is prioritising Champions League football.

Unless United win the Europa League this season, they are unlikely to make the competition. The budget could also be another concern for the Red Devils.

Sporting CP could demand at least £55m to part ways with Gyokeres if United were to secure their Champions League status for next season.

Keeping this in mind, United are eyeing an alternative and have identified Mateta, who has been in red-hot form for the Eagles in 2025.

He has already netted eight goals from as many league games this year. Overall, the Frenchman has 15 goals and three assists this season.

The 27-year-old had a slow start to his Palace career but has become one of the league’s best since Oliver Glasner’s arrival as the manager.

Mateta has caught the eye with his physical and aerial presence as well as his high pressing.

The former Mainz man could be seen as a cost-effective option to lead the attack if United fail to qualify for the Champions League next season.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com

Article written by Sri Aswin .