It is being suggested that Manchester United are in a favorable position to secure the signature of Jean-Philippe Mateta during the January transfer window.
A sum of £40 million has been mentioned as a possible figure that could persuade Crystal Palace to consider offers for the French international, whose form in front of goal in the Premier League continues to reach impressive new levels.
Jean-Philippe Mateta reportedly ‘receptive’ to a fresh opportunity amidst circulating transfer rumors
Mateta has experienced a significant upturn in fortunes over the past year and a half, culminating in his recent maiden call-up to the French national squad at the age of 28.
Integral to Oliver Glasner’s achievements at Selhurst Park, it is understood that the former Mainz player is hoping for recognition for his recent performances. There are now suggestions that Manchester United may be preparing a bid for the striker in January.
According to information from Caught Offside, the Red Devils, along with both Newcastle United and Tottenham, are of the opinion that an offer in the region of £40m would provide sufficient incentive for Palace to consider the sale of Mateta.
“Palace had ambitions to secure him with an extended contract, though it appears increasingly evident that the player may be unwilling to engage in further negotiations,” as stated by a source.
“Mateta is certainly a player to keep an eye on. With a new contract looking less and less likely, they might see this as an opportune moment to capitalize on his value. It wouldn’t be surprising if a deal is struck for around £40m,” another source commented.
The Eagles are eager to commit the recently-capped France international to a renewed agreement, however, discussions have seemingly reached an impasse, with Mateta now reportedly considering a departure as he approaches his peak performance years.
The team’s recent achievements in both the FA Cup and the Community Shield, coupled with the striker’s consistently strong scoring record in league matches, have significantly increased the player’s leverage during these contract discussions.
FourFourTwo suggests that a sum of £40m seems somewhat undervalued, and they find it unlikely he will depart from Selhurst Park as early as January, especially given that Man United have recently acquired Matheus Cunha, Benjamin Sesko, and Bryan Mbeumo for a combined total exceeding £200m.
Nevertheless, Man United demonstrated their continued influence in the transfer market by securing Wolves’ key player, Cunha, at the start of the recent summer transfer window. This suggests that a similar acquisition of Mateta cannot be completely dismissed.
What viewpoints has Mateta expressed concerning his future career path?
The player, aged 28, has been making a statement through his on-field performances recently. During his time on international assignment, RMC Sport inquired whether he sees himself continuing his career away from Selhurst Park.
“It’s a natural progression; every ambitious player aspires to reach such a significant milestone. Especially when joining the national team, where you’re surrounded by players competing in the Champions League and securing major honors. Playing alongside the world’s best naturally fuels your own ambition to achieve similar success.”
