Sources: Man United have internally discussed signing Crystal Palace 28-year-old
Man United are among a number of clubs keeping an eye on the situation of wantaway striker Jean-Philippe Mateta at Crystal Palace.
Mateta was widely expected to leave Palace after informing the club of his desire to move on, but is now stuck at Selhurst Park after his move to AC Milan collapsed.
As I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Transfer Insider podcast, potential suitors including Man United could be tempted to move for the 28-year-old in the summer.
The France international asked to leave Palace and pushed for the mid-season move, leading to questions about his place in Oliver Glasner‘s squad.
Meanwhile, he may yet undergo surgery on a persistent knee injury which combined with a potential lack of playing time could put off interest from rival clubs.
Man United plot move to sign Jean-Philippe Mateta
Football Insider exclusively revealed in December that Man United are interested in Mateta, with their interest long-standing after having considered a summer move.
While nothing materialised in the mid-season window following the departure of Ruben Amorim and appointment of Michael Carrick, their interest remains.
The recent performances of Benjamin Sesko have pushed the need for a new striker down the pecking order, but they are continuing to keep tabs on Mateta.
Speaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, I explained: “Yeah, I think he was on Man United’s list last summer and I ‘m told there was talk of something happening last month as well.
“Whether United have moved on now, that remains to be seen. I don’t think it’s a top priority for United anymore to bring in a new striker.
“With that injury, his age, he probably would not be top of United’s list anymore, Mateta.
“But I’m sure despite the disappointment of that deal to AC Milan falling through, there will be a number of clubs who will be ready to sign him in the summer from Crystal Palace, especially when he’ll just have one year left on his contract.”
Mateta may never play for Crystal Palace again
Mateta may never play for Crystal Palace again and will return to Selhurst Park facing a fractured relationship with the fans and potentially a long spell on the sidelines.
The France international was left out as Glasner’s side drew 1-1 with Nottingham Forest, having decided that his head wasn’t in the right place to play.
Milan moved ahead of the likes of Nottingham Forest, Tottenham and Juventus for his signature, but the deal eventually fell through after a late twist.
Meanwhile, former Man United chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider that Crystal Palace players are unhappy with Mateta and the way he has acted.
Newly-appointed Palace captain Dean Henderson appeared to hint at the issue: “It’s important we have the lads in the dressing room that keep showing up for the badge.” [South London]
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