Manchester United reinforced their attack with the likes of Bryan Mbuemo, Benjamin Sesko, and Matheus Cunha during the 2025 summer transfer window, which has undoubtedly made a difference for Ruben Amorin this season.  

But there have been mixed feelings amongst the fans towards two of the above-mentioned signings, as Sesko and Cunha, despite their efforts, have failed to justify their price tags as we enter the second half of the season.

Sesko, the leading striker, has scored twice and provided one assist, while Cunha netted three goals and provided only one assist in all competitions this season. United had to pay a little over £130 million for the duo, a significant sum even by recent transfer-market standards.

On the other hand, Joshua Zirkzee's likely winter departure means United won't have a striker in their ranks who can give Sesko some competition for a place in the starting lineup. Most importantly, Amorin would be short of options if either Cunha or Sesko gets injured.  

This situation has led the club's management to seek immediate reinforcements during the upcoming transfer windows, as reports from Sky Sports (via United in Focus) suggest the Reds are eyeing a move for Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta.  

Mateta's contract with Palace is set to expire in 2027, prompting the club to seek suitors and cash in on a transfer before his value dips further, as a new agreement is unlikely to be reached between the player and the club.

The French striker has repeatedly recorded double figures as he scored 19 goals in all competitions in 2023/24, struck 17 in 2024/25, and has nine in all competitions for the Eagles this season, which has seemingly solidified United's interest in Mateta as he gave Matthijs de Ligt a hard time during the Reds' victory against Palace in November.

Although the report suggests that the Eagles rejected an offer of £50 million for Mateta during the summer, pointing out that United would need to at least match that figure if they intend to bring in the player, amid interest from clubs like Atalanta, AC Milan, and Juventus.

Mateta, being 28 already, could force the club management to think that he's already past his prime, as he scored only once during the last eight games he played in, ending a seven-match goal drought, but at the same time, the French striker's experience in the Premier League could make him an invaluable transfer who would make an immediate impact.

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