Thierry Henry has told Man Utd why they must complete £40m transfer

Manchester United are keen to bolster their attacking ranks this summer, with Crystal Palace star Jean-Phillippe Mateta cited as a target. Sporting’s Viktor Gyokeres and Napoli forward Victor Osimhen are also admired, but the Frenchman is expected to be available at a far more attainable price. Mateta has enjoyed a sensational season so far at Selhurst Park, scoring 17 goals and registering four assists in 41 appearances in all competitions – and he has not been short of praise since his blistering breakout campaign last year.

Premier League defenders have struggled to deal with the pace and power of Mateta over the past few campaigns, with the towering striker being equally as comfortable with the ball at his feet as he is in the air. Former Arsenal star Thierry Henry has previously commended the 27-year-old, speaking last year about the striker’s qualities during his time in charge of the French national team for the 2024 Olympics. Henry selected Mateta as one of his three over-age players in the squad, crediting his profile as the reason for his inclusion.



He said: “He’s an old-fashioned striker – you can play a little more direct. He can keep the ball. “He’s a boring striker to play against! He doesn’t lose the ball much, and he goes at the last defender.

He uses his physicality, he’s good with his head, and he scores. It’s important that a striker like that gives you another dimension.” With United in desperate need of a forward to hit the ground running at Old Trafford and bring out the very best in the talented players already in their ranks, Mateta may be the ideal candidate to pursue – and his reported £40million price tag is likely to catch the eye of Ruben Amorim and co.

With Alejandro Garnacho, Amad Diallo and potentially Matheus Cunha set to be among United’s No. 10 options next season, the Red Devils could benefit from an experienced player leading the line and ensuring that there is a focal point in attack. With Bruno Fernandes set to drop deeper to play alongside Manuel Ugarte as well, Mateta could get the very best out of the skipper’s passing range – as Henry alluded to.

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