Manchester United are heading into the final days of the 2026 summer transfer window with one more area potentially requiring attention. Despite strengthening several positions already, the Red Devils are still considering whether to bring in another striker before the deadline.
The situation has become more pressing because Joshua Zirkzee’s future at Old Trafford is increasingly uncertain. If the Dutch forward leaves, Manchester United could need additional depth behind Benjamin Sesko.
Two experienced names have now emerged as possible options: Crystal Palace forward Jean-Philippe Mateta and Atletico Madrid striker Alexander Sorloth.
With the Premier League transfer window approaching its final stages, Manchester United face a race against time if they decide to make a move.
Why Manchester United Are Considering Another Striker
Manchester United’s interest in another forward is closely linked to the uncertainty surrounding Zirkzee.
The Dutchman’s future at Old Trafford has become less certain, creating a potential gap in the squad. Sesko is expected to remain an important figure in attack, but adding another experienced striker would give Michael Carrick more options during a long campaign.
The potential signing would therefore be more about squad depth than replacing Sesko.
Manchester United could benefit from having another forward who can provide:
- Competition for places.
- A rotation option during a busy schedule.
- A different attacking profile.
- Additional physical presence in the final third.
- Greater flexibility when tactical changes are required.
That is where Mateta and Sorloth become interesting possibilities.
Jean-Philippe Mateta Offers Premier League Experience
Jean-Philippe Mateta is not a completely new name in Manchester United transfer discussions.
The Crystal Palace striker has previously been linked with a possible move to Old Trafford, and recent reports indicate that he has been offered to the club.
However, a deal would not necessarily be straightforward.
Palace are understood to value their 29-year-old striker highly, while previous reports have indicated that the London club have been reluctant to part with him.
From Manchester United’s perspective, Mateta’s biggest advantage would be his familiarity with the Premier League.
The French forward already understands the demands and physical nature of English football. That could reduce the adaptation period normally associated with signing a player from another league.
His physical presence also gives Manchester United another option in the centre-forward position.
What Mateta Could Bring to the Attack
Mateta’s profile could be particularly useful when Manchester United need a more direct attacking approach.
His strength allows him to compete with defenders, while his role as a central striker provides a clear alternative to other attacking options.
For Carrick, having a forward with those characteristics could provide additional tactical flexibility.
Rather than relying on one style of attacking play, Manchester United could adjust their approach depending on the opponent and match situation.
However, the reported asking price remains an important factor.
Palace are not believed to be under significant pressure to sell, meaning Manchester United would need to decide whether Mateta represents good value as a squad addition.
Alexander Sorloth Emerges Late in the Window
Alexander Sorloth has become another name to watch as the transfer deadline approaches.
The Norway international, now with Atletico Madrid, has reportedly been offered to Manchester United through intermediaries. He is also understood to be open to the possibility of returning to the Premier League.
Sorloth already has experience in English football from his time with Crystal Palace.
At 30 years old, he would bring considerable experience to the Manchester United attack. His physical strength and aerial ability could offer a different dimension, particularly in matches where direct play becomes important.
According to a report from TEAMtalk cited in the supplied information, Sorloth has scored 175 goals in 475 career appearances.
That record underlines the experience he could bring if Manchester United decide to pursue the move.
Atletico Madrid Situation Could Decide the Deal
Sorloth’s potential transfer is also dependent on Atletico Madrid’s own plans.
The Spanish club are reportedly willing to consider his departure, but the situation is not entirely straightforward. Atletico would first need to secure a suitable replacement before allowing the Norwegian striker to leave.
That could make timing a crucial factor.
With the transfer window approaching its conclusion, Manchester United may have limited room to negotiate if Atletico need to complete their own business first.
The situation could therefore develop quickly in the final days of the window.
Mateta vs Sorloth: Which Profile Fits Manchester United?
Both players could strengthen Manchester United’s squad, but they offer slightly different qualities.
Mateta has the advantage of being younger and more familiar with the Premier League environment. His experience in England could make him a relatively straightforward option from an adaptation perspective.
Sorloth, meanwhile, brings broader experience from European football and offers a particularly strong physical profile.
A simple comparison highlights the difference:
- Mateta: Premier League experience, physical strength and familiarity with English football.
- Sorloth: European experience, aerial ability and a strong direct-play profile.
- Mateta: 29 years old and already established at Crystal Palace.
- Sorloth: 30 years old and currently contracted to Atletico Madrid.
- Both: Could provide additional depth rather than replace Sesko as the main striker.
The final decision could ultimately depend on price, availability and the type of striker Carrick wants in his squad.
Manchester United Face a Race Against Time
The biggest challenge is no longer simply identifying a striker.
Manchester United must also determine whether there is enough time to complete a deal that makes sense for the club.
Mateta could be complicated by Crystal Palace’s valuation and reluctance to sell. Sorloth’s situation is similarly dependent on Atletico Madrid finding a replacement.
That leaves the Red Devils with two potential routes but no guarantee that either deal will be completed.
For now, the focus remains on strengthening the squad while maintaining the right balance between quality, depth and financial value.
A Late Striker Move Could Complete United’s Squad
Manchester United’s interest in Mateta and Sorloth shows that the club are still monitoring the striker market as the 2026 summer transfer window reaches its conclusion.
The potential departure of Zirkzee has increased the need for another option behind Sesko, while both Mateta and Sorloth offer qualities that could complement the existing attack.
Mateta provides Premier League familiarity and physical strength. Sorloth offers experience, aerial ability and a proven scoring record.
Neither appears to be viewed as a direct replacement for Sesko. Instead, the priority is adding depth and giving Carrick another reliable option in attack.
With the deadline approaching, Manchester United now have to decide whether to make their move or enter the new season with their current options.
ALSO READ :
