Jean-Philippe Mateta move depends on one key condition

According to a report by Football Insider on Saturday, October 3, 2026, Manchester United’s reported interest in Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta could become more serious if one of the club’s current forwards leaves during the January transfer window. United have maintained an interest in Mateta but are not currently expected to make signing another striker a priority.

The club already has Benjamin Sesko and Joshua Zirkzee available as attacking options. As a result, United may need to see a change in their forward line before pursuing another centre-forward. Transfer correspondent Pete O’Rourke explained that Zirkzee’s situation could have an important influence on United’s plans for January. “Man United have had a long-standing interest in signing Jean-Philippe Mateta,” O’Rourke said.

“A lot will depend on their own situation, because obviously they have got Benjamin Sesko and Joshua Zirkzee as their attacking options at the moment who can lead the line.” O’Rourke added that Mateta could become a realistic target if one of those players departs Old Trafford.

“So it doesn’t look like signing a new striker is going to be a priority at the moment, but if one of those players was to leave, it could open the door to a move for Mateta,” he said. Zirkzee’s limited playing time could therefore become an important factor. The Dutch striker has reportedly featured for only 70 minutes across four appearances this season after United kept him at the club beyond the summer transfer window.

The 25-year-old has also recorded five goals and three assists in 58 Premier League appearances, according to the report. Meanwhile, Mateta remains a player attracting interest despite uncertainty surrounding his future at Crystal Palace. For now, any potential move to Manchester United appears dependent on developments within the club’s existing squad, particularly whether Zirkzee or another forward leaves before the January window.

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