Manchester United are yet to sign anyone in the January transfer window but Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta is reportedly hoping for a move
Josh Holland
07:25, 24 Jan 2026Updated 07:25, 24 Jan 2026
Cole Palmer during a Chelsea game
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Liam Rosenior has given an update on his Chelsea star Cole Palmer(Image: David Horton - CameraSport via Getty Images)
Manchester United transfer speculation is intensifying as the January transfer window approaches its closing stages. Michael Carrick's squad have yet to make any signings this month and the likelihood of adding new faces appears slim.
Nevertheless, several midfield targets have been linked with a switch to Old Trafford. The United bosses are only anticipated to strengthen Carrick's side if there is a market opportunity or if one of their long-standing targets are the subject of interest from a competitorn, reports the Mirror.
This week, Cole Palmer has surfaced as an unexpected summer possibility. The England star, from Manchester, was a United fan in his youth and reports suggest he may be becoming restless in the capital.
There have also been links to a fresh forward amid speculation surrounding Joshua Zirkzee's future. With all of this in mind, the Star has compiled the latest United updates and speculation.
Chelsea's Palmer position
Chelsea manager Liam Rosenior has insisted Cole Palmer is content at Stamford Bridge following this week's United links. Palmer supported United as a youngster and maintains a close friendship with Kobbie Mainoo.
Claims this week have suggested that the attacking midfielder is dissatisfied in London and might make a return to Manchester. Nevertheless, Rosenior has maintained he continues to feature in Chelsea's future blueprint.
"I've had numerous conversations with Cole and he seems very happy to be here," he said. "He's a huge part in our long-term plans. My job and the club's job is to get him into a situation where he can consistently perform to the level he wants to. There was frustration in the Brentford game. We need to look after him and that's why I didn't involve him in the last game."
Cole Palmer during a Chelsea training session
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Cole Palmer has been linked with a move to Man United from Chelsea(Image: Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images)
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Striker 'waiting' for United move
Crystal Palace forward Jean-Philippe Mateta is reportedly 'hoping' that United make a bid for him this January as he seeks to depart Selhurst Park. Mateta was linked with United last summer following his impressive goalscoring displays in the capital.
The France international has made Palace aware of his wish to move on, with his preference understood to be a Champions League side. His deal runs until 2027 and could cost £35m.
Reports suggest Mateta is hoping that United approach him in January to secure his services. Nevertheless, there isn't any firm interest from Carrick's team at this point.