Manchester United need goals. Only five teams in the division have scored fewer goals than Ruben Amorim’s side this season, with United believed to already be looking towards the transfer market for a solution.
One - perhaps surprise - name that has emerged is Crystal Palace marksman Jean-Philippe Mateta. The Frenchman has scored 12 times in the league this season, which is over double the amount Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee have managed in the same competition combined.
According to reports, a fee of £40million could be enough to tempt Palace into a sale, with Mateta’s status as a Premier League-proven goalscorer said to be appealing to the Red Devils. But with United said to be worried about their current PSR situation, Sir Jim Ratcliffe and co. might have to get creative with their offer to sign Mateta.
As such, Express Sport have taken a look at three players United could offer as part of a swap deal for the Palace forward.
Altay Bayindir
Alongside a striker, United are said to have a goalkeeper on their summer shopping list, with Amorim not convinced by Andre Onana’s ability. While the Cameroon international is at risk of losing his starting spot, it’s unlikely they’ll find a permanent buyer for the £47m man.
Instead, Altay Bayindir will no doubt be forced to move on if United add another shot-stopper to their ranks. Perhaps he comes into INEOS’ thinking when plotting a deal for Mateta.
Joshua Zirkzee
It would certainly help with negotiations if United can offer Palace someone who plays in the same position. Joshua Zirkzee might not be an out-and-out centre-forward, but he showed during his days with Bologna that he certainly can operate up top.
Plus, considering they only paid £36m for Zirkzee in the summer of 2024, should the finances in a prospective Mateta deal match up, United might be able to justify allowing the Dutchman to depart just one year into his contract.
Harry Maguire
It’s difficult to properly judge how Harry Maguire’s United career has actually played out. Another big-money arrival when he joined in 2019, and despite some shaky performances at times, the Englishman has managed to endear himself to the Old Trafford faithful.
However, by the time the start of next season rolls around, Maguire will be into his mid-30s, with less than one year left on his contract. Should they wish to move him on, a part-exchange with Mateta could represent an attractive deal for both parties.