Reports around Manchester United have been consistent this summer. It is highly unlikely that Manchester United will choose to conduct any business in the January transfer window, unless an opportunity too good to ignore presents itself.
This approach is exhibited well with the Antoine Semenyo transfer saga. Semenyo's Bournemouth contract included a release clause for a fee that was below market value, around £65 million, only to be activated in the first two weeks of the January transfer window, to give Bournemouth ample time for the hunt for a replacement.
Manchester United had heavily pursued the Ghanian winger last summer, and went back in for him this January, before Semenyo chose to join Manchester City instead. It shows that United are willing to spend this January, but only if the opportunity presents itself. Now, with less than two weeks left in the window, United have been handed another.
Shock Fabrizio Romano report links Man United target Jean-Philippe Mateta to exit
Crystal Palace striker and top scorer Jean-Philippe Mateta has reportedly been linked with a move away from Selhurst Park this January. This move would pile on the suffering at Palace, who have already lost their club captain Marc Guehi, and look to be on the rocks with their manager Oliver Glasner.
Fabrizio Romano reported that Mateta and his camp have expressed his desire for an exit this January, and they have sanctioned his sale if their price tag is reached.
The French striker has had something of an off season at Palace this year, despite managing 10 goals in all competitions already this season. Mateta joined the Eagles in 2021, and has slowly become a fan favourite at the club, and becoming one of the club's best players.
Man United have been linked with the French striker at various points over the last two seasons, and he was believed to be in the running to become United's new striker this summer, which ultimately became Benjamin Sesko.
But United would in the market for another striker given certain circumstances, such as the potential exit of Joshua Zirkzee, who has consistently been linked to Roma.
United would face stiff competition for Mateta's signature, even in January. Aston Villa currently look to be frontrunners in the negotiations, with the sale of Donyell Malen opening up some funds for the Villans to deploy. Juventus have also been linked to the Frenchman, and there are rumours that the ever opportunistic Chelsea are also in the race.
Given the collapse currently happening at Crystal Palace, it might not be that surprising that Mateta is looking for the door. United could capitalise on the situation, and secure themselves a talented, Premier League proven striker, who could prove a huge asset for Michael Carrick if he pushes for Champions League qualification.