‘Not good enough’ – Manchester United warned against signing Mateta

Former Watford striker Troy Deeney has urged Manchester United to steer clear of Crystal Palace forward Jean-Philippe Mateta.

Deeney warns that his recent goal-scoring form does not make him the right fit for Old Trafford.

Mateta has been in blistering form under Oliver Glasner, netting eight goals in his last eight Premier League appearances.

However, Deeney believes the 27-year-old’s form is merely a “purple patch” rather than proof of long-term consistency.

Speaking to talkSPORT, Deeney questioned United’s reported interest, arguing that Mateta was never prolific before Glasner’s arrival.

“No, because he’s not the answer for Palace. So why is he going to be the answer for Manchester United?” he stated.

While acknowledging Mateta’s quality, Deeney highlighted the vast difference in expectations between Palace and United.

He also suggested that Palace’s attacking setup, particularly their No. 10s, provides better service than United’s current system.

United manager Ruben Amorim is expected to strengthen his attacking options in the summer, with both Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee struggling for goals.

Hojlund has gone 19 games without scoring, while Zirkzee has managed just six goals in 41 appearances.

Deeney believes United need an experienced No. 9 to help Hojlund develop, rather than another inconsistent forward.

“You bring in someone to improve them. I think Zirkzee is more of a No. 10. Hojlund has potential, but he needs to be more selfish in front of goal,” he added.

United will look to end their struggles when they host Arsenal on Sunday, with Hojlund hoping to break his goal drought and ease concerns over the team’s lack of firepower.