Jean-Philippe Mateta offered to Manchester United

Manchester United’s attacking options have been shaped by fitness concerns for much of their pre-season.

Benjamin Sesko did not start United’s opening Premier League defeat to Hull City but came on as a substitute.

Joshua Zirkzee didn’t feature against Hull City as the club’s clear preference is to move the Dutchman on before deadline day.

Bryan Mbeumo has also been used centrally at times, offering Carrick a further option while his recognised striker returns to full sharpness.

Against that backdrop, Jean-Philippe Mateta has emerged as one of the names being monitored by United as a potential addition up front.

Aston Villa have already had an opening bid for the Crystal Palace striker rejected, according to the latest reports.

Jean-Philippe Mateta offered to Manchester United

Mateta has also been offered via intermediaries to both Manchester United and Tottenham as his situation at Selhurst Park continues to develop, as talkSPORT reports.

The Frenchman has scored 48 goals in 149 Premier League appearances for Palace, forming a key part of a remarkable 12 months for the club.

That period included FA Cup, Community Shield and UEFA Conference League success under Oliver Glasner.

United reportedly renewed their interest in Jean-Philippe Mateta last month, having previously explored a move during the January transfer window.

Palace are believed to value the 28-year-old at around £25million and are open to a sale, with his contract running until 2027.

AC Milan came close to signing Mateta earlier this year, agreeing a £30million deal that reportedly matched his own preference at the time.

He even underwent a medical with the Serie A club before the move was ultimately called off.

United’s interest in a new striker remains contingent on Zirkzee completing a departure before the window shuts.

Juventus have been credited with interest in the 25-year-old, who joined United for £36.5million from Bologna in 2024.

A loan return to Serie A is understood to be viewed as the most realistic outcome for Zirkzee’s immediate future.

For now, sources close to the club describe any move as a contingency plan rather than an active pursuit.

Carrick’s preference remains for Sesko to lead the line once he returns to full match fitness.

Zirkzee’s next move is expected to determine whether United return to the market before deadline day arrives.