Manchester United are reportedly exploring a move for Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta ahead of the summer transfer window. The Red Devils are said to be in the market for a striker following goal-shy performances from Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee this season.

United find themselves in 14th ahead of the weekend action, with the record English champions having netted just 33 times in the league. Only five teams in the division have netted fewer times this season, leaving Ruben Amorim looking for a solution to United's goal-scoring problem.

Finding the back of the net hasn't been an issue for Mateta, given he's scored 12 times for Palace in 27 Premier League appearances already this term. That's seven more than both Hojlund and Zirkzee combined, with the duo having scored two and three goals respectively.

Adding a Premier League-proven goalscorer to their ranks could be the perfect remedy for Amorim and co., with Mateta having emerged as a potential candidate.

As per L’Equipe, United are believed to have already opened talks with their Premier League counterparts regarding a potential move for Mateta. The 27-year-old is contracted at Selhurst Park until the summer of 2027, meaning Palace aren't in a rush to sell and would command a hefty fee for his signature.

And according to the outlet, Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS will likely have to part way with around £40million if they wish to sign Mateta in the off-season.

Mateta is currently out of action after he suffered an injury following a collision with Millwall goalkeeper Liam Roberts during Palace's FA Cup fifth round clash last weekend. The attacker was hospitalised following the incident and while he avoided a serious injury, Mateta remains out of action.

In a club statement, Palace said: "We are very pleased to confirm that JP Mateta has this evening been discharged from St George’s Hospital where he received specialist treatment and 25 stitches to a severe laceration to his left ear. All scans were clear and JP is feeling well.

"He will now rest and recuperate over the following days where his progress will be monitored by our club doctor.

"Thank you to the medical staff at both Selhurst Park and the hospital for their help and professionalism, and for all the wishes of support that JP and the club have received today."

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