Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta could leave the club before tomorrow’s Premier League transfer deadline, with Manchester United reportedly offered the chance to sign the France international if they meet Palace’s £35m asking price.
The 29-year-old has attracted interest from both Manchester United and Tottenham after another productive period in front of goal. Mateta has scored at least 10 Premier League goals in each of the past three seasons, but his future at Selhurst Park has become increasingly uncertain.
Palace have made a difficult start to the 2026/27 campaign, losing their opening two league matches under new manager Pierre Sage. Mateta was not included in the matchday squad for last weekend’s 4-1 home defeat by Manchester City, further fuelling speculation that he may be nearing the end of his time with the club.
The striker is also involved in a contractual dispute with Palace. His representatives reportedly believe the final year of his agreement is invalid, and the matter has been taken to FIFA for consideration.
Mateta initially joined Palace on an 18-month loan. That move was subsequently made permanent, with the forward signing a four-and-a-half-year contract in January 2022. The agreement included an option for the club to extend the deal by a further 12 months.
Palace activated that extension in 2024. On the club’s interpretation of the agreement, Mateta’s current contract is therefore due to expire at the end of the 2026/27 season.
However, that position has been challenged by Mateta’s representatives. The disagreement has emerged alongside reports that the player wants to leave, creating uncertainty over whether Palace will sell him before the deadline or retain him for the remainder of the season.
According to the latest report from Metro Sport, some Palace supporters have become frustrated by Mateta’s desire to move on. The report says Manchester United have been offered a deal for the striker, provided they are prepared to match Palace’s £35m valuation.
United’s interest comes with little time remaining before the Premier League window closes, making the situation a potential late move in the transfer market. Palace must now decide whether to accept a bid at their asking price, while Mateta’s representatives continue to dispute the terms of his contract.
The striker’s absence against Manchester City and the ongoing FIFA case have added to the uncertainty surrounding his position. With Tottenham also understood to be interested, Mateta’s next move could be determined before the deadline, provided one of his potential suitors meets Palace’s valuation.