Cheaper option than Osimhen? Manchester United plotting move for French striker

English Premier League club Manchester United are considering a move for French striker Jean-Philippe Mateta as he is a cheaper option than Super Eagles star Victor Osimhen, Soccernet.ng reports.

Osimhen has been heavily linked with a move to Manchester United for the last 18 months, but the club has failed to seal the deal. Instead, they have signed other strikers like Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee.

Unfortunately for them, these two strikers have failed to impress. And with the appointment of new coach Ruben Amorim, there is a good possibility that both of them will leave.

Manchester United coach Ruben Amorim (photo credit)
Osimhen’s name has continually been mentioned at Old Trafford. However, the Red Devils have been performing poorly in recent months, and it has affected their finances adversely. Hence, they might not be able to afford Napoli’s €75 million price tag.

Victor Osimhen for Galatasaray (Photo credit: Imago)
As such, they are now looking at other options. According to Transfer News Live, Manchester United have identified Mateta as a potential option. He has contributed 12 goals and two assists in 27 Premier League appearances for Crystal Palace this season.

Manchester United are considering a summer move for Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta.

With Victor Osimhen and Viktor Gyokeres being too expensive, United will look for cheaper options.

(Source: @TheSunFootball) pic.twitter.com/diq7B6W7K1

— Transfer News Live (@DeadlineDayLive) March 7, 2025

The 27-year-old striker is valued at €20 million. With just a year left on his current contract, the Eagles will be willing to let him leave if he refuses to sign an extension.

Is Mateta the better option for Manchester United?
Jean-Philippe Mateta (photo credit: Imago)
Manchester United have been guilty of signing the wrong profile or type of players in recent years, and that has been a major reason for their struggles. Despite Mateta’s experience playing in the Premier League, he has not proven that he can deliver the goods consistently.

It will be a big risk for the Red Devils if they acquire his services because it will be another waste of funds if he fails to deliver. Osimhen is also a big risk due to his lack of experience in English football. However, he has proven to be a prolific goalscorer over the years in France, Italy, and currently Turkey.

The Super Eagles star has proven to be one of the deadliest strikers in the world. Any team he eventually joins will surely score many goals.

Kelvin Omachonu

Kelvin Omachonu is a writer with many years of experience covering sports events in Nigeria and abroad. He is fueled by his love for the job, and is dedicated to delivering captivating stories.