Man Utd are in the hunt for 'tried and tested' Premier League title with 16 goals last season

Manchester United are exploring a move for Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta as manager Rúben Amorim looks to bolster his attacking options.

The 27-year-old Frenchman has emerged as one of the Premier League’s most reliable forwards, scoring 16 goals in all competitions for Palace last season and already making a strong start to the current campaign.

United scouts have been impressed by his consistency, physical presence, and finishing ability — qualities the club believe could complement their existing front line.

According to reports from FourFourTwo, United are among several top-flight clubs monitoring Mateta’s situation closely.

Palace recently exercised an option to extend his contract until 2027, giving them a strong negotiating position, but sources suggest a bid in the region of £45–50 million could tempt them to the table.

Amorim is said to be an admirer of Mateta’s style, viewing him as the kind of traditional No. 9 capable of holding up play and linking with creative players such as Bruno Fernandes or Amad Diallo.

United’s recruitment team believe his proven Premier League record makes him a safer bet than some of the overseas targets also under consideration.

Palace manager Oliver Glasner has previously praised the forward’s work rate and professionalism, saying earlier this month: “Jean-Philippe has been fantastic for us. His mentality, his physicality, and his finishing have taken him to another level. It’s no surprise big clubs are looking.”

For United, a move for Mateta would signal intent to address their ongoing issues in front of goal. The team have scored just 11 league goals so far this season — among the lowest in the top half of the table — and Amorim is understood to have made a new striker one of his top priorities.

While no formal approach has yet been made, United’s growing interest suggests Mateta could be one of the key names to watch when the transfer window reopens in January.