Wayne Rooney Tells Arsenal To Go for Manchester United Transfer Target

Former Manchester United star believes Jean-Philippe Mateta could be the solution to Arsenal’s striker woes amid ongoing interest from the Red Devils.

Both Manchester United and Arsenal are in the market for a striker and they have recognized this season’s Crystal Palace sensation Jean-Philippe Mateta for the role. However, Man United legend Wayne Rooney may ruin Red Devils’ plans as he has urged Arsenal to steal their target.

Somehow… the points are shared 😳⚖️#MUFC || #MUNARS
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) March 9, 2025

Mateta has been involved in 18 goals for Crystal Palance this campaign – having scored 15 and assisted thrice in 33 appearances. Reportedly, his consistent performances so far have led to Manchester United opening talks for a potential summer move.

Also read:

The striker is also believed to be open to the switch despite the Red Devils’ struggles under manager Ruben Amorim. Arsenal, meanwhile, continue to face offensive challenges, particularly in the absence of key players due to injuries.

Even when fit, the Gunners have lacked a clinical presence up front, which has contributed to their struggles in tight matches. Rooney believes Mateta could be the missing piece in Mikel Arteta’s attack.

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.”

Arsenal’s Striker Woes Continue

Arsenal’s attacking problems were evident in their recent 1-1 draw against Manchester United, where they dominated possession but failed to capitalize on their chances. Despite Declan Rice’s second-half equalizer, the Gunners struggled to break down United’s defense, leaving manager Mikel Arteta frustrated.

After the match, Arteta expressed his disappointment with the missed chances. He said, “Very frustrating we haven’t won with the dominance and the chances we had in the first half… The execution has to be in to the right player and the right player to shoot.”

With several missed points, Arsenal could be looking to finish as Premier League runners-up for the third consecutive season. Now, there is an increasing pressure on Arteta to secure a reliable goal-scorer in the summer transfer window. As per reports, Mateta could be available for around £40 million, which makes him an affordable and effective option for both the Gunners and Red Devils.

Arsenal

Crystal Palace

Jean-Philippe Mateta

Man United

Manchester United

Wayne Rooney

Moumita Dutta

soccer

Football writer at The Playoffs. I’ve been obsessed with the beautiful game since I was a kid.. Eventually, I realized I could combine my passion for writing with my love for football, and I’ve never looked back. My favorite part of the job is everything—when you’re doing what you love, even a late-night deadline feels like extra time in a thrilling cup final. Lastly, Lionel Messi is the GOAT.