Manchester United’s summer search for a striker has taken another hit, as Jean-Philippe Mateta edges away from a potential move to Old Trafford. After losing out on Liam Delap—who is now set to join Chelsea for £30 million—the Red Devils face fresh disappointment in their bid to strengthen the frontline.
Delap had impressed during his breakout Premier League campaign with Ipswich Town, scoring 12 goals despite the club’s relegation. United were frontrunners in the race but ultimately failed to convince the 22-year-old, who instead chose Chelsea for their Champions League prospects.
Mateta, currently a key figure at Crystal Palace, remains on United’s radar. The 27-year-old has been in outstanding form since Oliver Glasner took charge, notching 30 goals in 59 appearances and helping the Eagles lift the FA Cup in May—securing Europa League qualification in the process.
United had shown interest in Mateta as early as February. Palace value the Frenchman at over £50 million, and reports suggest he is still viewed as an attractive option by the club’s decision-makers. However, Mateta’s desire to play Champions League football could push him out of United’s reach, especially after their 15th-place league finish and Europa League final defeat to Tottenham.
To complicate matters further, talkSPORT reports that Palace are in talks to extend Mateta’s contract, which currently runs until 2027. With European competition on the horizon and strong performances under Glasner, the club is focused on securing the futures of its core players, including Eberechi Eze and Adam Wharton. Meanwhile, defender Marc Guehi is expected to move, with Newcastle leading that pursuit.
As United evaluate their options, other names remain on their shortlist. Napoli’s Victor Osimhen and Sporting’s Viktor Gyokeres have both been linked, with manager Ruben Amorim determined to find a replacement for the underperforming Rasmus Hojlund.
Despite setbacks, United continue to search for a striker capable of leading their attack and reigniting their hopes for a return to Europe’s top competitions.