Manchester United told ideal striker signing ‘will push’ for huge transfer

Manchester United have been urged to complete a move for Jean-Philippe Mateta following interest in the summer

Former Arsenal defender Bacary Sagna believes Jean-Philippe Mateta is due a big move and could push for transfer, suggesting Manchester United would be the ideal destination given their lack of a recognised No.9. United have scored 19 goals in the Premier League, just five fewer than leaders Arsenal, but Benjamin Sesko has only struck twice in the league.

While they have won three straight against Sunderland, Liverpool and Brighton, they have recently drawn to Nottingham Forest and Tottenham and lost to Everton on Monday.

Ruben Amorim’s side continue to struggle for consistency, while summer signing Sesko has yet to find his rhythm following his £73million move from RB Leipzig. Sagna believes Mateta could be the ideal answer for their attack.

“It would make sense if Jean-Philippe Mateta went to Manchester United,” he told Oddspedia. “They don’t really have a No 9 who is tall, can hold the ball and can get on the end of crosses.

“It could be difficult for him as a new player coming into a club where there are a lot of new players and transferring his skills across from Crystal Palace, but a move to Old Trafford would be good for him and the club.”

Sagna continued: “It will be difficult for Palace to keep hold of him, and it’s the right moment for him to move if he wants the test of playing for one of the biggest teams in the Premier League.

“He’s not a young player anymore and it might be one of the last moves of his career, so he will probably push for it if the opportunity arises.”

Mateta has been at prolific for Crystal Palace over the years and his vast Premier League experience could make a real difference at Old Trafford, if a move was to come to fruition in the future, following their interest in the summer.

The 28-year-old’s contract at Selhurst Park is set to expire in the summer of 2027.

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