Crystal Palace are reportedly prepared to offload striker Jean-Philippe Mateta as contract negotiations stall.
The Frenchman’s current agreement runs until the summer of 2027, and he is yet to accept fresh terms at Selhurst Park, which is a concern for Palace supporters who recognise that the 28-year-old is in the best form of his career right now.
With seven goals in 13 Premier League outings and nine in all competitions, Mateta has also earned his first France call-up under manager Didier Deschamps.
Now, as his performances continue to stand out, The Sun claims that the Eagles are willing to sell if discussions fail to move forward. The club are already set to lose Marc Guehi for nothing in the summer when his contract ends, and they are clearly not prepared to let two key players depart without receiving a transfer fee.
Mateta has registered 45 goals and 8 assists in 144 games for Palace, and The Sun’s report indicates that he is pushing for a substantial increase on his £70k-per-week salary to reflect his status as the club’s standout figure.
Palace are open to offers for Mateta, with AC Milan and Bayern Munich listed as potential admirers. The striker has been upfront about his ambition to play for a Champions League team, which could hint at his next move, saying in October:
“It’s natural, every ambitious player wants to reach that milestone. Especially when you arrive in the national team and around you, there are only players who play in the Champions League, who win the biggest trophies.”
Man Utd or Arsenal: Which club suits Mateta more?
Both Manchester United and Arsenal are considered suitable destinations for Mateta, according to data analytics firm SciSports.
Ruben Amorim’s side are regarded as a slightly stronger match for the forward, earning a Club Fit score of 75. This rating is determined using several factors, including potential growth, playing opportunities, tactical approach and system.
Arsenal score 72 in comparison, with Mikel Arteta’s style of play believed not to align perfectly with Mateta’s attributes.