Man Utd eye Jean-Philippe Mateta as January replacement for Zirkzee

Manchester United are reportedly prepared to sanction Joshua Zirkzee’s departure in the January window and have identified Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta as a potential replacement.

What happened
According to reports, United declined Everton’s loan approach for Zirkzee during the summer because they could not find a suitable replacement. Everton had tried to sign the Dutch striker on loan before the deadline and Zirkzee was reportedly willing to move. The club are now open to accepting a loan fee for Zirkzee that would include a buy clause.

Targeting Mateta
EyeFootball reports United could pursue Jean-Philippe Mateta when the transfer window reopens. Mateta will enter the final six months of his Crystal Palace contract in January and has reportedly made it clear he will not extend that deal. As a result, Palace are expected to consider selling him in the winter window.

Competition for the No.9 role
United would reportedly bring Mateta in to compete with Benjamin Šeško for the club’s central striker position. The move is presented as a January opportunity to replace Zirkzee should the club agree to his departure on the loan-plus-buy terms outlined.

What happens next
The situation centres on the January transfer window: Mateta’s contractual status from January would make a winter sale feasible, and United’s willingness to accept a loan with a buy clause for Zirkzee leaves open a possible exchange of moves in the mid-season window.