Three players Man Utd could offer as a swap as club looks to bring in £40m rated striker

Manchester United are reportedly exploring a move for Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta ahead of the summer transfer window.

The Red Devils are said to be in the market for a striker following goal-shy performances from Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee this season.

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 here are three players United could offer as part of a swap deal for the Palace forward.

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.

It would certainly help with negotiations if United can offer Palace someone who plays in the same position. 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.

And 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.