Man Utd transfer news: Red Devils rival Spurs in late race to sign 'wantaway' £26m-rated striker

Manchester United have emerged as another potential destination for Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta before the transfer deadline.

The France international is determined to leave Selhurst Park, with his representatives now exploring several options across Europe and the Premier League.

Tottenham Hotspur are also in the race, while the Red Devils could make a move if Joshua Zirkzee or Marcus Rashford departs.

Man Utd plot late move for Jean-Philippe Mateta ahead of deadline day

United and Spurs are among the top clubs approached about a potential move for Mateta, according to TEAMtalk.

The 29-year-old has been seeking an exit from Crystal Palace for much of the past year and came close to leaving in January, when a proposed move to AC Milan collapsed over an issue with his knee.

Mateta has also challenged the validity of the final year of his Palace contract, but his deal remains in place, and the club are adamant they do not want to sell him.

His representatives are nevertheless pushing for a solution before the September 1st deadline, with Atletico Madrid, Aston Villa and clubs in Saudi Arabia also aware of his availability.

Palace reportedly wanted around £50 million for Mateta in the last window, although his current situation could see that valuation reduced, with Transfermarkt estimating him to now be worth just £26 million.

United are considering him as part of their wider forward planning, with a deal potentially dependent on further departures from Old Trafford.

Jean-Philippe Mateta would be a huge upgrade on Joshua Zirkzee

There is a strong argument that Mateta would represent a significant upgrade on Zirkzee.

The Frenchman has scored 50 goals in 163 Premier League appearances for Palace, averaging a goal every 3.3 games. Zirkzee, by comparison, has just nine goals in 75 appearances for United overall, or one every 8.3 games.

Mateta would also provide the physical presence and directness United could use from the bench or in matches where they need a different approach.

At 29, he would not be a long-term solution, but United need proven production if Zirkzee leaves.

A more modest fee than Palace's previous £50 million demand could make this a particularly attractive late-window opportunity for Michael Carrick and United.