Report: Manchester United Must Pay £60m to Secure Key Striker Target | OneFootball

Manchester United Weigh Move for Jean-Philippe Mateta Amid Striker Search

Manchester United’s search for a new striker continues to evolve, with Crystal Palace’s Jean-Philippe Mateta now emerging as a serious candidate. According to TEAMtalk, Mateta is one of five names on a shortlist compiled by technical director Jason Wilcox and director of recruitment Christopher Vivell. The 27-year-old’s impressive form has caught United’s attention, but any potential deal will come with significant financial considerations.

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Mateta’s Standout Season at Crystal Palace

Mateta has been a key figure for Crystal Palace this season, scoring 12 goals and providing two assists in the Premier League. His ability to hold up play, link attacks, and contribute with crucial goals has made him a standout performer in Oliver Glasner’s squad. With his contract running until 2027, Palace are under no pressure to sell, giving them a strong bargaining position.

While some reports had suggested Mateta could be available for around £40m, TEAMtalk reports that “Palace’s demands will actually be over £60m,” putting him in a similar price bracket to other top targets like Victor Osimhen and Viktor Gyokeres. The club may also look to extend his contract, using a strategy similar to what they employed with Michael Olise before his eventual departure.

United’s Striker Shortlist: Options and Challenges

Mateta is not the only striker being considered by United. TEAMtalk reports that he is “shortlisted alongside Victor Osimhen and Viktor Gyokeres, although deals for the duo would be financially difficult and there is no guarantee at all the club moves for either.” Benjamin Sesko, who was previously linked with Arsenal and Chelsea, remains on their radar, while Liam Delap is another name being discussed, though he is also attracting interest from Chelsea, Tottenham, and Newcastle.

The challenge for United is that many of these targets demand European football and command high wages. With their Champions League qualification still uncertain, it may be difficult to convince players of Mateta’s calibre to make the move. Additionally, United’s need to offload players before committing to major signings further complicates matters.

Palace’s Stance and Mateta’s Position

Despite growing interest, Palace are not keen to part ways with Mateta unless a significant offer is tabled. TEAMtalk notes that “Palace will certainly not allow their star striker to leave on the cheap, if at all.” The club is reportedly working on securing his long-term future, either through a new contract or by persuading him to stay for another season before considering a transfer.

For his part, Mateta appears content at Selhurst Park and is not pushing for a move. TEAMtalk states that “Mateta, for his part, is happy with Palace and isn’t agitating for a move away.” This suggests that any transfer would have to be driven by a substantial offer from United rather than player pressure.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

For Manchester United signing a striker is a priority, but whether Mateta is the right fit remains up for debate. His Premier League experience is a significant advantage, making him a lower-risk signing compared to bringing in a forward from outside England. However, at a reported price tag of over £60m, United would need to be certain that he can deliver at the highest level.

Compared to other targets like Osimhen or Gyokeres, Mateta is perhaps a more attainable option, both in terms of transfer fee and wages. But there’s a question of whether he has the ceiling to be United’s long-term solution in the No. 9 role. His goal record is solid, but not spectacular, and given United’s history of big-money signings that have failed to meet expectations, this would be a deal that requires careful consideration.

Another issue is squad balance. If United fail to qualify for the Champions League, they may need to focus on multiple positions rather than spending heavily on a single forward. Financial constraints and the need to move on existing players before committing to new signings mean this summer’s business will require precision.

Ultimately, Mateta is a proven Premier League striker, but United must decide whether he is the right profile to lead their attack or if their money would be better spent elsewhere. If Palace hold firm on their valuation, United may be forced to look at alternative targets.