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Manchester United eyeing Crystal Palace star with 14 goals in the Premier League this season

Originally posted on We All Follow United
By Rohit Sarkar | Last updated Apr 24, 2025 2:51 PM ET

Manchester United are eyeing Crystal Palace star Jean-Philippe Mateta

It’s been a tough watch for Manchester United fans in the Premier League this season. The team has been plagued by injuries, inconsistent performances, and a clear lack of cohesion on the pitch. As a result, United find themselves languishing near the bottom of the table, with their only realistic route to European football next season being through the UEFA Europa League, where they’ve reached the semi-finals.

The pressure is now firmly on Ruben Amorim to turn things around, and the upcoming summer transfer window will be pivotal to shaping his project. Off the pitch, the arrival of INEOS has brought a renewed sense of direction, with promises of a comprehensive squad rebuild. Rumours of major signings are already starting to surface, and with multiple areas in need of reinforcement, fans are eagerly awaiting decisive action. This summer feels like a defining moment, both for the club’s ambitions and for its hopes of reclaiming a competitive edge.

Manchester United want to sign Jean-Philippe Mateta

According to CaughtOffside, United have expressed serious interest in Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta and have already made initial contact with the player’s camp. Mateta has emerged as a standout performer for Palace, and his recent form has attracted attention from several top clubs. Aware of the mounting interest, Crystal Palace are said to be preparing for his potential departure by exploring replacements, suggesting that a move for the Frenchman could be on the cards this summer.

Manchester United’s ongoing struggles in front of goal have made the need for a proven striker a top priority heading into the summer transfer window. With Rasmus Højlund and Joshua Zirkzee both falling short of expectations this season, the club has been actively scouting forward options to bolster their attacking line.

Mateta has enjoyed a quietly impressive campaign in the 2024/2025 Premier League season, netting 14 goals in 33 appearances, equally split between home and away fixtures. His overall goal-scoring rate stands at 0.51 goals per 90 minutes, with a total goal contribution (G/A) of 16, equating to 0.59 per 90. Additionally, his non-penalty expected goals (xG) per 90 minutes is a respectable 0.39, highlighting his ability to consistently get into dangerous positions.

The Frenchman is a powerful and athletic striker known for his clinical finishing, hold-up play, and aerial prowess—traits that have made him a reliable presence in Crystal Palace’s front line. His relentless work rate and confidence make him well-suited for Premier League intensity. At 27, Mateta represents a cost-effective and battle-tested option for Manchester United, especially under a tactical setup like Ruben Amorim’s 3-4-2-1, where physicality and intelligent back-to-goal movement are key. Whether United move for him may ultimately depend on Amorim’s preference for system-fit players over marquee names, particularly if Champions League qualification slips out of reach.

This article first appeared on We All Follow United and was syndicated with permission.

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