---
title: "Manchester United identify ’62 goal forward’ as January striker target"
canonical: "https://readmanutd.com/2026/10/01/jean-philippe-mateta-manchester-united-transfer/"
type: "post"
language: "en-GB"
author: "Shumail Sajid"
section: "Man Utd Transfer News"
published: "2026-10-01T09:00:00Z"
modified: "2026-10-01T09:00:00Z"
---

# Manchester United identify ’62 goal forward’ as January striker target

**Manchester United have reportedly identified Jean-Philippe Mateta as a potential January signing as Michael Carrick looks for another experienced striker option.**

[According to TEAMtalk](https://www.teamtalk.com/manchester-united/man-utd-consider-jean-philippe-mateta-transfer-crystal-palace-joshua-zirkzee-exclusive), the Crystal Palace forward is keen on a move to Old Trafford, while his current contract is due to expire at the end of the season. That could make Mateta an attractive option for United as they assess their attacking needs.

[Manchester United](https://readmanutd.com/tag/manchester-united/) currently have [Benjamin Sesko](https://readmanutd.com/squad/benjamin-sesko/) and [Joshua Zirkzee](https://readmanutd.com/squad/joshua-zirkzee/) as their main centre-forward options. Sesko has been unable to find consistency this season because of an ongoing shin problem, while Zirkzee has struggled to make a real impact since joining from Bologna. He was heavily linked with a move away from Old Trafford in the summer. He is expected to be shipped out when the transfer window opens.

[Matheus Cunha](https://readmanutd.com/squad/matheus-cunha/) and [Bryan Mbeumo](https://readmanutd.com/squad/bryan-mbeumo/) can also operate through the middle, although both are more naturally suited to playing from wider positions.

## **Mateta offers Manchester United an experienced option**

TEAMtalk claim United could look to move Zirkzee on next year, potentially creating space for another striker. Mateta has now emerged as one player being monitored by the club.

The Frenchman has reportedly been looking for a move away from Palace for much of the last two years, and his representatives have now made contact with United.

Mateta has scored 62 goals in 203 appearances for Palace, giving United a proven [Premier League](https://readmanutd.com/tag/premier-league/) option if they decide to make a move.

His situation is also worth watching because his contract is approaching its final months. United may therefore see an opportunity to add an established striker without committing to a long-term deal immediately.

With Sesko currently sidelined again, United’s need for another reliable option has become more obvious. Mateta could now become one of the names at the centre of their January wishlist.