Manchester United have shifted their eyes to Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta. They want him as a backup plan, with their top transfer target now looking unlikely.
Jean-Philippe Mateta is rising quickly as backup target after Delap update
**Manchester United**’s summer transfer strategy has taken a hit following their Europa League final loss. That has left them out of European competition for the next season. That failure not only impacts their standing but also puts a dent in their finances. That will be costing them an estimated £100 million in potential UCL revenue. With budget issues and limited appeal to top players, the Red Devils are now reconsidering their transfer targets.
Meanwhile, they are hopeful about landing Wolves’ Matheus Cunha for £62.5 million. But, their move for Liam Delap appears to be falling apart. Delap was likely to sign if Utd won the Europa League. Though, he is now on the radar of Chelsea and Newcastle.
Proven Premier League goalscorer now on United’s radar
With Delap likely heading elsewhere, Utd have shifted their focus to Crystal Palace’s Jean-Philippe Mateta. The 27-year-old is in blazing form so far this season. He has bagged 30 PL goals across the last two seasons. That is 16 goals last year and 14 this campaign.
Mateta’s current contract runs out in 2026, but with just a year left. So, Palace will be willing to sell him for around £30 million. That is the same amount it would’ve taken to sign Delap via his release clause.
And even with Palace’s Europa League qualification by winning the FA Cup, Mateta is reportedly open to considering a moved to Old Trafford. If so, he’ll become the focal point of Utd’s rebuild. And for France manager Didier Deschamps, the closer Mateta gets to Manchester, the better for the France national team ahead of their 2026 World Cup aspirations.
For the Red Devils, this could allow them to land an established PL striker without breaking the bank. That is a smart move in what’s shaping up to be a challenging summer.
A trusted source on ManUNews.com
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