The French forward has been an important figure in Palace's progress in recent seasons, but his desire to leave the club has created uncertainty over his long-term future.
Mateta came close to joining AC Milan during the January transfer window, although the proposed move collapsed after concerns over his knee prevented the transfer from being completed.
Juventus had also assessed the possibility of signing the striker, but did not proceed with a deal. Interest from Manchester United could now provide another potential destination as the next transfer window approaches.
According to TMW, Manchester United are looking for ways to strengthen their attacking options and could consider a move during the winter window. Mateta's contractual situation is a factor, although the financial terms of any potential transfer remain unclear.
The striker's current agreement with Crystal Palace is scheduled to run until June 2027. The club activated a 12-month extension option in 2024, a decision Mateta has challenged.
The disagreement centres on whether that additional year of his contract is legally binding. Mateta and his representatives have argued that the extension should not be valid, potentially allowing him to leave before the agreement expires.
However, an independent Premier League tribunal rejected his challenge, while FIFA subsequently indicated that it did not have jurisdiction to intervene in the dispute.
The contractual uncertainty has added another complication to an already difficult relationship between the player and Palace.
Mateta has been an influential attacking presence since joining the London club, initially arriving on loan before completing a permanent move from Mainz in January 2022.
His performances helped establish him as one of Palace's leading forwards, and his contribution to the club's recent successes has made the prospect of his departure significant.
The Frenchman has reportedly wanted to leave for at least a year, with the failed Milan move illustrating how difficult it can be to complete a transfer when contractual and medical considerations are involved.
Manchester United's reported interest could offer an alternative if the club decide to pursue a recognised centre-forward. However, there has been no confirmation of a formal bid or agreement, and any potential move would depend on negotiations with Palace and the player's representatives.
The January window could therefore become an important period for Mateta. United would need to assess the cost of a deal, while Palace would have to consider whether selling the striker would be preferable to retaining him amid the ongoing dispute.
His contractual position may influence the club's negotiating stance, but the outcome will depend on the terms available and the level of interest from potential buyers.
For now, Mateta remains a Crystal Palace player, and Manchester United's reported interest should be treated as transfer speculation rather than a confirmed move.