CurrentReport Blog Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney has recently urged Arsenal to hijack their Premier League rivals’ pursuit of Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta.
The 27-year-old French forward has been in impressive form this season, and his performances have caught the attention of several top clubs, including Manchester United. However, Rooney believes that Arsenal should make a move for the striker this summer, considering their need for a reliable frontman.
Mateta’s Rising Stock at Crystal Palace
Jean-Philippe Mateta, who joined Crystal Palace from German side FSV Mainz in January 2021, initially struggled to make an impact in the Premier League. However, after a difficult start, Mateta has found his rhythm and emerged as one of the standout strikers in the English top flight. This season, he has been instrumental in Crystal Palace’s performances, contributing significantly to their offensive play.
Last season, Mateta played a crucial role in helping the Eagles finish 10th in the Premier League, with his physical presence and ability to score goals becoming a key component of the team’s attack. His performances have made him a valuable asset for Palace, and he is reportedly valued at £40 million, reflecting his improved form and importance to the club.
Mateta’s development into a consistent Premier League striker has turned heads, with his blend of strength, aerial ability, and clinical finishing making him a sought-after target. His versatility in attacking positions, coupled with his knack for scoring goals, makes him a strong addition to any team looking to bolster their attacking options.
Wayne Rooney’s Call for Arsenal to Act
Wayne Rooney, who was watching Arsenal’s 1-1 draw with Manchester United in the Premier League recently, believes that the Gunners should act quickly and secure Mateta’s signature. Rooney pointed out that Arsenal’s attacking struggles have been evident in recent matches, particularly their inability to finish chances created by their midfield and wide players.
Speaking to BBC Sport, Rooney said, “Jean-Philippe Mateta is a big, strong lad who scores a lot of goals. From watching Arsenal over the past few games in the Premier League, they have put a lot of balls into the box without having anyone to get on the end of them. I am sure he would help from that point of view.”
Rooney’s comments highlight a key issue for Arsenal this season. Despite their strong midfield and creative players, the Gunners have lacked a consistent goalscorer who can capitalize on the numerous crosses and deliveries into the box. This is where Mateta’s aerial presence and finishing ability could prove to be a game-changer.
Arsenal’s Need for a Striker
Arsenal has long been on the lookout for a reliable striker to complement their attack, with manager Mikel Arteta keen to strengthen his squad ahead of next season. While Arsenal has enjoyed strong performances from their attacking trio in recent seasons, including the likes of Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Martinelli, they have struggled to find a consistent source of goals from the center-forward position.
The Gunners have relied on players such as Eddie Nketiah and Leandro Trossard to fill the role, but neither has been able to provide the same level of clinical finishing that Arsenal needs to challenge for the top honors in the Premier League. As a result, the club has been linked with a number of strikers in the transfer market, with Mateta emerging as an intriguing option.
Mateta’s physicality and ability to hold up the ball would allow Arsenal to be more dynamic in their attacking play, particularly with their wide players delivering crosses into the box. His experience in the Premier League, coupled with his proven ability to score goals, would make him an ideal candidate to lead Arsenal’s attack next season.
Mateta’s Future at Crystal Palace
While Crystal Palace will undoubtedly be keen to hold on to their prized asset, the growing interest in Mateta suggests that he could be on the move this summer. With his value increasing and his performances continuing to improve, it will be interesting to see whether Palace can fend off interest from top clubs like Manchester United and Arsenal.
At 27, Mateta is entering the prime of his career, and a move to a bigger club could be a significant step forward for him. For Arsenal, securing his signature could be a key move to strengthen their squad and enhance their chances of challenging for the Premier League title next season.
Wayne Rooney’s comments regarding Jean-Philippe Mateta serve as a reminder of the striker’s growing importance in the Premier League. With both Manchester United and Arsenal reportedly interested in his services, the 27-year-old forward is likely to be one of the most sought-after players in the upcoming summer transfer window. For Arsenal, bringing in a player like Mateta could provide the firepower they need to compete at the highest level and secure a top-four finish in the Premier League. As the summer transfer window approaches, it will be fascinating to see how this potential transfer saga unfolds.
