Premier League heavyweights Manchester United have been told they can sign Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta for a reduced fee this summer.
United have been scouting the French forward of DR Congolese descent throughout the season and held initial talks with Palace last week regarding a potential transfer.
According to The Mirror, Palace are willing to sell the French forward for £40 million—nearly half of what Sporting CP are demanding for Viktor Gyökeres.
Gyökeres is the top target for United manager Rúben Amorim, but the club’s board has made it clear that there are no funds available for a high-profile signing.
Even to afford Mateta, United would need to sell players to raise the necessary transfer fee.
Mateta has been a key figure for Palace this season, delivering crucial goals under Oliver Glasner.
However, he is currently recovering from a head injury sustained in a collision with Millwall goalkeeper Liam Roberts two weeks ago.
The incident left Mateta needing 25 stitches, but Palace remain optimistic about his return. They hope he will be available for their FA Cup quarterfinal clash against Fulham at the end of the month.
With United looking to strengthen their attacking options, Mateta represents a more affordable alternative to Gyökeres. However, whether the club can raise the funds to complete the deal remains uncertain.
