Manchester United’s main transfer objective for the winter window is Crystal Palace’s Jean-Philippe Mateta, who is certain to leave his current club come 2027, with the timing of his departure now the only point for discussion.
During the summer, the Red Devils were weighing up a move for a new striker due to doubts surrounding Joshua Zirkzee's ability as a backup to Benjamin Sesko. However, the transfer fell through as the Dutchman remained with the squad, while strengthening the midfield took precedence. It’s expected that Manchester United will look to offload Zirkzee in January, after which they plan to recruit a new forward.
Mateta's contract with Crystal Palace is set to expire next summer, and he has no intentions of extending it. Previously, the Frenchman was on the verge of a switch to AC Milan, but the deal collapsed due to medical issues. Insider Pete O'Rourke confirms that the Eagles have accepted the inevitable departure of the player and must now decide whether to sell him in January to recoup some funds or allow him to stay until six months before his contract ends. Jason Wilcox is showing serious interest in Mateta, appreciating his Premier League experience and his impressive tally of 42 goals over the last three seasons, all without the support of an elite playmaker like Bruno Fernandes.
