Man Utd should sign Palace striker who hit a double at Old Trafford, says pundit

With time running out, Paul Merson believes Manchester United should turn their attention to Jean-Philippe Mateta, who scored twice against them on Sunday.

Speaking to Sky Sports News, Merson argued that Mateta would immediately improve United’s frontline: “Man United should get Mateta. That’s what they need.

"He’s a strong lad up front, playing at the top of his game, leading the line, and scoring goals now. He runs and works his socks off harder than anyone.”

However, Merson admitted that United are unlikely to make a move because of Mateta’s club: “They won’t because he plays for Palace.

"And everyone would go: ‘What are you buying him for?’ But he’s 100 times better than anyone Man United have in the front line right now.”

He further claimed Mateta is currently better than both Rasmus Højlund and Joshua Zirkzee, although he excluded Amad Diallo, citing his young age.

Premier League legend Alan Shearer, meanwhile, believes United’s struggles are far from over and expects things to get worse before they improve under Rúben Amorim.

“Palace were worthy of their win, and I can still see it getting worse at Old Trafford before it gets better,” Shearer said on The Rest Is Football podcast.

With no major signings confirmed and limited time left, United’s transfer window could end in frustration—potentially leaving them short on both midfield reinforcements and attacking firepower as they navigate the rest of the season.

With the 11pm deadline fast approaching, United are running out of time to complete any late signings.

Moves for Leon Bailey and Christopher Nkunku now seem highly unlikely, reinforcing United’s determination to keep Alejandro Garnacho if Napoli or Chelsea submit a last-minute bid.

One of the most unexpected twists of the window has been Mathys Tel’s dramatic U-turn on a move to Tottenham.

Spurs initially agreed a €60m (£50m) deal with Bayern Munich, but the move fell apart when Tel rejected them. However, just days later, Tottenham returned with a loan offer, which Bayern accepted, leading the 19-year-old to complete his switch to North London.

This development is a major setback for United, who also had a loan bid rejected by Bayern. Reports had suggested Tel preferred a move to Old Trafford, but circumstances didn’t align, allowing Spurs to capitalize and seal the deal.