Exclusive: Man United turn attention to signing Jean-Philippe Mateta in January
Manchester United have turned their attention to a January move for Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta, sources have told Football Insider.
The 28-year-old’s long-term future at Palace is up in the air with contract talks over a new deal stalling.
Mateta’s contract expires at Selhurst Park in the summer of 2027 and attempts to secure him to an extension have failed.
United are long-term admirers of the France international and they are keeping close tabs on his situation at Selhurst Park as they weigh up a January offer.
Mateta has scored nine goals across all competitions so far this season, including against United last month.
Jean-Philippe Mateta yet to recreate heights of last season
Palace have reportedly already started to assess replacements for Mateta, as they prepare for his potential departure.
After initially joining on loan, the South London club signed the striker from Mainz in a deal worth around £9million in 2022.
| Jean-Philippe Mateta | Premier League 2025-26 |
| Appearances | 18 |
| Goals | 7 |
| Successful dribbles | 12 |
| Shots | 48 |
| Duels won | 72 |
After a difficult first couple of seasons in the Premier League, the Frenchman exploded into life in the 2023-24 campaign, netting 19 goals across all competitions and providing six assists.
While Mateta scored only 17 last season, he was arguably better, featuring heavily as Palace powered to FA Cup glory in May.
The 28-year-old has shown signs of reaching those levels again in recent months, but his form has slowed amid rumours of the forward carrying a knock.
Mateta is among a number of players who could leave Palace in the coming months, with decision-makers set to field queries from throughout the Premier League.
Crystal Palace face potential mass exodus
Palace’s exploits over the last year have led to mounting interest in several key members of their squad.
Eberechi Eze joined Arsenal in the summer, and Marc Guehi is expected to leave at the end of his contract after coming close to signing for Liverpool in the summer.
Manchester United also reportedly have eyes on another Palace man in Adam Wharton. The midfielder has impressed massively since his arrival from Blackburn Rovers, and is tracked by several clubs.
Maxence Lacroix, Tyrick Mitchell, Ismaila Sarr and Justin Devenny have also been linked away, but the most damaging departure could come in the dugout.
Oliver Glasner is reportedly expected to leave Palace at the end of his contract in the summer, with Selhurst Park chiefs facing a monstrous rebuild job.