Manchester United’s plans for a more potent attack under Ruben Amorim have been forced into an early rethink following the loss of a major striker target before the summer window has even opened.
The Red Devils suffered a major setback when it became clear that Liam Delap, long viewed as the club’s preferred option up front, had decided to join Chelsea instead of heading to Old Trafford.
That decision has triggered a fresh round of discussions behind the scenes at Carrington, with Amorim and the recruitment team now focused on alternative options to lead the line next season.
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Despite the blow, United’s business is already underway.
Matheus Cunha is expected to become the first new arrival of the summer after a £62.5million deal was verbally agreed with Wolves.
But Amorim is not stopping there.
The club remains intent on reinforcing the forward line with another addition.
Particularly as United look to bounce back from a woeful campaign that saw them finish 15th in the Premier League and miss out on European qualification.
Jean-Philippe Mateta and Kolo Muani emerge as serious targets
According to GiveMeSport’s report, Manchester United are looking into the possibility of signing either Paris Saint-Germain’s Randal Kolo Muani or Crystal Palace’s Jean-Philippe Mateta.
Both players are emerging as serious candidates following the collapse of the Delap deal.
United previously pursued Kolo Muani in January.
However, the France international turned down the move in favour of joining Juventus on loan.
With Juve now unlikely to push for a permanent deal, United could pounce.
Although PSG would demand in excess of £35million.
Amorim and senior figures are said to be open to another loan approach, depending on the circumstances, particularly given Kolo Muani’s profile and pedigree.
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However, United would prefer a striker with proven Premier League experience, which is why Mateta has come back into consideration.
The Frenchman was pivotal in Crystal Palace’s FA Cup-winning run and has impressed under Oliver Glasner, leading to his valuation rising to around £40million.
A fee higher than the reported cost for Liam Delap.
The Red Devils are continuing to weigh up whether Mateta could become the leading figure in their forward line.
Potentially, moving ahead of both Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee in the attacking hierarchy.
Having made his debut for the France national team in 2024, it could be the right time for the big move in Mateta’s career.
