Manchester United could land Jean-Philippe Mateta on a reduced summer deal after a collapsed AC Milan move leaves him at Palace with 18 months left on his contract. Punters may shorten odds on United’s attack, backing Mateta to score early for his new club or betting on United to hit 2+ goals per game if the signing goes through.
Mateta ready to move after collapsed AC Milan transfer
Jean-Philippe Mateta has signalled he wants to leave Selhurst Park by the end of the season after a late winter transfer to AC Milan collapsed during a medical. With 18 months remaining on his contract, the 28-year-old striker will now stay at Crystal Palace until the summer — creating a likely window for suitors to negotiate a reduced fee.
Financials and transfer outlook
A deal worth around £30m had reportedly been on the table, but the aborted move suggests Palace may have to accept a lower offer in the summer if Mateta maintains his desire to move. That makes the France international an attractive, cost-effective option for clubs seeking Premier League-proven striking reinforcements.
Why Manchester United could pounce
United have increasingly looked for players with Premier League experience when rebuilding their squad. If the club wants to spend big on midfield targets valued at six-figure sums, they may prioritise value in other areas — and Mateta fits that profile as an experienced and proven Premier League goalscorer.
Player profile and record
At 28, Mateta offers immediate impact rather than a long-term project. He has 46 goals in 153 English top-flight appearances, showing a consistent scoring record that would provide depth and competition in the striker corps.
Striker dilemma for the incoming United manager
Potential exits and squad uncertainty leave United short up front. With Rasmus Hojlund reportedly set for a move and Joshua Zirkzee struggling for favour, the incoming manager could be left with limited options alongside Benjamin Sesko and Bryan Mbeumo. Bringing in a ready-made Premier League striker like Mateta would ease pressure and provide a proven alternative.
How the deal would change United’s recruitment strategy
If United are forced to outlay significant fees on midfield targets, pursuing a more affordable striker makes strategic sense. Mateta offers Premier League experience and an immediate goals threat without requiring a marquee transfer outlay, allowing the club to balance spending across positions.
Betting implications and market movements
A summer transfer for Mateta to a club like Manchester United would likely shift betting markets. Odds could shorten for United to score more goals per match and for Mateta to register goals early in his stint. Punters might also see value in match-goal props, first-goal markets, and anytime scorer bets if bookmakers factor his arrival into team attacking expectations.
What to watch before placing bets
Monitor official confirmation of Mateta’s transfer, preseason role and minutes allocation, and how any new coach plans to use him. Those factors will determine his immediate scoring chances and the extent to which betting markets adjust.
Serie A | Bologna 0-3 Milan: Who needs Mateta?
United could bring in another star with Premier League experience
Givemesport
