Manchester United renew interest in Jean-Philippe Mateta

Manchester United’s summer rebuild is far from complete despite several key arrivals already walking through the doors at Carrington.

Michael Carrick has strengthened the spine of his squad with the additions of Andrey Santos and Youri Tielemans, while Benjamin Sesko’s first campaign at Old Trafford last season has given supporters plenty of optimism for the future.

However, the club are not expected to stop there as INEOS continue searching for experienced players capable of raising the overall standard of the squad.

Recruitment has focused heavily on finding the right balance between youth and experience, with United determined to avoid placing too much responsibility on their younger stars.

That strategy has now seen the club revisit a familiar attacking target.

According to Rudy Galetti, via X, Manchester United have renewed their pursuit of Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta, having previously explored a move for the French forward during the January transfer window.

The report claims Atletico Madrid and Juventus are also monitoring the situation, setting up what could become a three-way battle for the 28-year-old’s signature.

Crystal Palace are believed to value Jean-Philippe Mateta at around £25 million and are open to selling, with his current contract running until 2027.

Negotiations are expected to gather pace over the coming weeks as interested clubs assess whether to formalise their interest.

United’s desire to add another centre-forward comes despite Benjamin Sesko enjoying an encouraging debut season at Old Trafford.

INEOS are understood to want a proven and experienced No.9 who can share the goalscoring responsibility rather than leaving the burden solely on the Slovenian striker.

Joshua Zirkzee’s future has also become increasingly uncertain after failing to make the desired impact since arriving at Manchester United, with Carrick unconvinced by the Dutch forward.

Mateta, meanwhile, has continued to enhance his reputation over the past two seasons at Crystal Palace.

The striker became a fan favourite at Selhurst Park while helping the Eagles enjoy memorable success, including their FA Cup triumph and qualification for the UEFA Europa League.

He also found the net 12 times last season and earned a place in Didier Deschamps’ France squad for the FIFA World Cup.

Interestingly, Mateta came close to securing a move to AC Milan earlier this year, with reports claiming the transfer collapsed despite the striker completing his medical examinations.

Now, Manchester United appear ready to test Crystal Palace’s resolve once again as they continue searching for another experienced attacking option before the transfer window closes.