Manchester United told to pay £40m for Crystal Palace star Jean-Philippe Mateta
Manchester United have reportedly learned the transfer fee needed to sign Crystal Palace star Jean-Philippe Mateta.
The Red Devils have been massively underwhelming this campaign, as they are languishing in 15th place in the Premier League after collecting 33 points from 27 matches.
Scoring goals has been one of the biggest issues for United and manager Ruben Amorim is desperately seeking a new striker to improve their attack.
Given their financial issues, the English giants are prioritising budget-friendly options and they have identified Mateta as an ideal fit.
According to the Mirror, United have been told it will cost them only £40 million to sign the 27-year-old in the summer.
Mateta, who has been described as “extraordinary” by Rory Smith, has been earning rave reviews with his performances in the Premier League this season. He has scored 12 goals and registered two assists in 27 appearances in the English top-flight this campaign.
United signed Rasmus Hojlund in a huge £72 million deal in August 2023, but the Dane has failed to live up to expectations at Old Trafford. The 22-year-old has netted only two goals in 22 league appearances this term.
Joshua Zirkzee, who arrived at the club last summer, hasn’t fared any better, with the Netherlands international scoring just three goals in 27 top-flight matches.
Amorim would love to reunite with his former Sporting Lisbon goal machine Viktor Gyokeres. But the 26-year-old’s £80m release clause is too much for United.
Victor Osimhen is another option for the Red Devils, but the Nigerian’s enormous wages are a stumbling block in the way of a deal.
