The search for Manchester United strikers collided with another obstacle as Crystal Palace moved to secure Jean-Philippe Mateta and effectively blocked potential moves to Old Trafford.
Mateta’s current contract runs until 2027 and they are keen to maintain his services as Palace prepares for European competition under Oliver Glasner.
Former Man United and Blackburn scout Mick Brown has revealed that the Eagles are “confident” in finalizing their 27-year-old’s progress and conditions.
Rown explains that consultations were launched as early as December to ward off the profits of the competition.
United are closely monitoring Mateta, but they believe that unless the striker receives an offer from the Champions League, the palace will protect him unless he pushes forward a club that he cannot refuse.
Man United Target Mateta was involved in the new contract talk
“We’d be surprised if Mateta joins Man United now.” He told the soccer insider.
“The palace is about to negotiate a new contract and they are making good progress with it.
“I think I said this before, because I heard he was happy in the palace.
“If he was about to leave, I think it would have to be an offer he couldn’t refuse for the clubs competing in the Champions League.
“I don’t know if they’ve ever been overly concerned about their interest in him.
“It looks like Palace will play in the Europa League, and he is part of Glasner’s plan, so there’s no reason for him to go elsewhere.
“It’s not Manchester United in particular, because the palace is the better option at the moment.
“So from what I’ve heard, I’m sure the palace can bring him into a new covenant.”
Reuben Amorim is actively looking for a striker
United’s pursuit is strengthened amid the uncertainty of current progress.
Despite missing out on their dream striker Victor Gyoker, they continued to explore alternatives as they had previously been flagged as a major contender on their list.
United are actively looking for a reliable centre forward, but Crystal Palace appears to have effectively eliminated the move this summer to secure Mateta on a new contract.
The Red Devils may need to focus on other targets like Dusan Vlahovich, a Juventus attacker who is demanding a high wage package to move to Old Trafford.
Man United is desperately trying to sign a partnership with the World Cup winner