Manchester United Eyeing Alternative Striker Options After Sesko Snub | OneFootball

Mateta Heads Four-Man Striker Shortlist in Manchester United Overhaul

Manchester United’s summer rebuild has gained fresh momentum with the club now reported to have drawn up a four-man shortlist for a new No.9. According to TEAMtalk, Crystal Palace’s Jean-Philippe Mateta is emerging as their preferred choice after recent setbacks in the transfer market: “According to our sources, Crystal Palace’s Mateta is now a prime option on their transfer shortlist.”

New Era Taking Shape at Old Trafford

Following a shambolic 2024/25 campaign which saw United slump to 15th and finish 27 points off Champions League qualification, the overhaul has begun in earnest. The signing of Matheus Cunha from Wolves for £62.5m is the first major step. The Brazilian is expected to operate in one of the dual No.10 roles in Ruben Amorim’s 3-4-2-1 system.

Photo: IMAGO

However, the glaring need for a reliable centre-forward has pushed United’s recruitment team – Jason Wilcox and Christopher Vivell – back to the scouting table. Sesko appears bound for Arsenal, while Liam Delap has opted for Chelsea. In the wake of those blows, United have narrowed their sights on four realistic alternatives: Victor Osimhen, Randal Kolo Muani, Jonathan David, and Mateta.

Mateta: Premier League Proven and Powerful

Mateta’s form at Selhurst Park has been impossible to ignore. With 17 goals in all competitions last season, he led Crystal Palace to Europa League qualification and emerged as one of the division’s most consistent forwards.

“Mateta, 27, has established himself as one of the Premier League’s most consistent forwards, with his physicality, aerial prowess, and clinical finishing making him a standout at Palace.”

While Osimhen’s name carries more glamour, his wage demands – reportedly around £400,000 per week – make the Nigerian a difficult proposition in an era when Sir Jim Ratcliffe is committed to cost-cutting. Kolo Muani’s valuation is also steep, and though Jonathan David will be a free agent come July, doubts remain about his adaptation to English football.

By contrast, Mateta’s Premier League credentials and form make him a logical candidate. That said, TEAMtalk report that “Palace are unlikely to let their star man go for less than £50m.” The Eagles’ position is strengthened by Mateta’s contract, which runs until 2027, and the fact they’ve secured European football for next season.

Photo: IMAGO

Complex Market, Financial Balancing

United’s rebuild will be shaped as much by outgoings as incomings. Captain Bruno Fernandes is the subject of a £100m offer from Al-Hilal, a move that has split opinions. Paul Scholes has gone as far as calling for Fernandes to be sold, questioning his consistency and clarity of role.

Elsewhere, United are reportedly considering offers for several fringe players, while former boss Erik ten Hag may return to poach some of his old charges at Bayer Leverkusen. The club also remain interested in two Brighton players and are keeping tabs on Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo.

Still, the striking position remains the headline issue. Whether United can meet Palace’s demands – or indeed fend off other suitors for Mateta – could well define the opening weeks of the INEOS era.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

For Manchester United supporters, the focus on Jean-Philippe Mateta will divide opinion. There’s a section of the fanbase still dreaming of marquee names like Osimhen, while others may see the appeal in pragmatic, Premier League-tested talent.

Mateta’s 17-goal season and robust frame make him a very different option to Rasmus Højlund. He’s physical, direct, and works the channels well – everything this current United side desperately lacked last season. His work under Oliver Glasner has elevated his tactical maturity, and he could thrive in Amorim’s pressing-heavy system.

But Palace won’t make it easy. The £50m valuation is steep, especially given the club’s need to sell before they buy. If Fernandes goes, it could unlock the war chest, but losing the captain risks leadership and creativity at a time when both are in short supply.

Ultimately, Mateta may not be glamorous, but he might be the kind of fit United need in this moment – strong, reliable, with a Premier League CV. Whether that’s enough to appease a demanding fanbase remains to be seen.