Manchester United Urged to Sign Crystal Palace’s Jean-Philippe Mateta as Amorim’s Ideal Striker

Manchester United have been encouraged to pursue Crystal Palace’s Jean-Philippe Mateta, labeled a “defender’s worst nightmare” and the “perfect” striker for manager Ruben Amorim’s system, as they seek to bolster their attack following a disappointing 2024/25 Premier League season. The recommendation comes amid United’s ongoing battle with Newcastle United for RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko and interest in PSG’s Randal Kolo Muani.

Why Mateta?

• Fit for Amorim’s System: Football analyst George Smith highlighted Mateta as an ideal fit for United’s 3-4-2-1 formation, praising his physicality, aerial prowess, and goal-scoring instincts. The 26-year-old Frenchman scored 19 goals in 35 Premier League games last season, proving his ability to lead the line and exploit half-spaces alongside United’s recent signings, Matheus Cunha (£62.5m from Wolves) and Bryan Mbeumo (£71m from Brentford).
• Defender’s Nightmare: Mateta’s blend of pace, power, and finishing, combined with his ability to win headers, makes him a formidable presence. His 2024/25 campaign, including standout performances for France at the Olympics, showcased his capacity to dominate defenses, aligning with Amorim’s need for a dynamic No. 9.
• Affordable Option: With Palace valuing Mateta at around £50–60 million, he represents a cost-effective alternative to Sesko’s £60–70 million price tag or pricier targets like Viktor Gyokeres, who Arsenal are set to sign for £85.5 million. United’s financial constraints, after spending £133.5 million this summer, make Mateta’s fee appealing.

Sesko and Kolo Muani Context
United remain in the race for Sesko, a 22-year-old Slovenian who scored 21 goals last season, with head of recruitment Christopher Vivell leveraging his Leipzig connections to push for a deal. However, Newcastle’s “agreement in principle” with Sesko and their need to replace Alexander Isak, who is nearing a £130 million move to Liverpool, intensify the competition. Meanwhile, Kolo Muani, available for £52 million from PSG, is a fallback option, though his inconsistent form raises concerns compared to Mateta’s proven Premier League pedigree.

United’s Striker Crisis
United’s urgency stems from last season’s dismal 44-goal Premier League tally, with Rasmus Højlund and Joshua Zirkzee managing just seven goals combined. Højlund’s struggles with off-ball runs and Zirkzee’s preference for a deeper No. 10 role highlight the need for a true centre-forward. Marcus Rashford’s loan to Barcelona and potential exits of Alejandro Garnacho, Jadon Sancho, and Antony further thin United’s attacking options, making Mateta’s immediate impact potential a priority.

Implications
Signing Mateta could provide United with a ready-made solution, allowing Amorim to integrate him quickly for the August 17 Premier League opener against Arsenal. However, missing out on Sesko to Newcastle could force United to pivot fully to Mateta or Kolo Muani, risking a less transformative signing. Palace’s reluctance to lose their star striker adds another hurdle, especially with Liverpool also linked to Mateta.

Developing Story
United are expected to decide their striker target within days, with Mateta emerging as a strong contender due to his affordability and fit. The transfer window’s September 1 deadline looms large as Amorim aims to finalize his squad. Note: Transfer valuations and negotiations are based on recent reports and may shift as talks progress.