Wayne Rooney urges Arsenal to hijack Man United transfer move for 27-year-old EPL striker

Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney has urged Arsenal to hijack the Red Devils’ transfer target, Crystal Palace star Jean-Philippe Mateta, this summer.

The 27-year-old Mateta has exceeded expectations this season and has now emerged as a subject of interest for Manchester United.

The Frenchman helped the Eagles finish 10th in the Premier League last season and has been a key factor in their recent run of form.

Rooney, who watched Arsenal draw 1-1 with Manchester United in the Premier League on Sunday, believes the Gunners need a frontman.

He asserted that the north London outfit should launch a move for Mateta. He told BBC Sport, *”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.”

Mateta, reportedly valued at £40 million, struggled in his first two seasons at Crystal Palace but has emerged as one of the best strikers in the English top-flight league.

The former FSV Mainz star has started 44 of the Eagles’ 46 games.