Crystal Palace are reportedly preparing to sell their prolific striker Jean-Philippe Mateta in the summer of 2026, with talks over a new contract for the French international at a standstill.
Contract Impasse Forces Palace's Hand
The 28-year-old forward is currently enjoying another impressive season in front of goal for the Eagles. He has scored seven times in 13 Premier League appearances this campaign, taking his total to nine goals across all competitions.
Despite becoming a reliable source of goals since a slow start in south London, negotiations over extending his deal have ground to a halt. Mateta's current contract runs until the end of the 2026/27 season, meaning he would enter its final year next summer if no agreement is reached.
According to reports, the club's hierarchy, led by chairman Steve Parish, are determined to avoid a repeat of the situation with captain Marc Guehi. Guehi is set to leave on a free transfer when his contract expires this summer, a scenario Parish has described as a financial blow the club "could not really afford."
Learning from Past Mistakes
The potential departure of Guehi for nothing has clearly influenced Palace's thinking regarding Mateta. Speaking previously, Parish emphasised the need to either secure key players on new terms or sell them, stating: "For players of that calibre to leave on a free, it’s a problem for us unfortunately."
This policy makes a sale next summer the most plausible outcome to prevent Mateta from running down his contract. The club is now open to selling the striker in 2026 to ensure they receive a substantial transfer fee for one of their most valuable assets.
Suitors Lining Up for In-Form Striker
Mateta's consistent goalscoring record in the Premier League has not gone unnoticed. Italian giants AC Milan have been touted as potential suitors, while the striker's profile has also been linked with a move to Manchester United.
Former Arsenal and France defender Bacary Sagna has publicly advocated for a move to Old Trafford. He suggested Mateta's physical style as a tall, traditional number nine would suit United, who lack a player with his specific attributes.
Sagna told Oddspedia: "It would make sense if Jean-Philippe Mateta went to Manchester United... It’s the right moment for him to move if he wants the test of playing for one of the biggest teams in the Premier League."
The striker's Premier League statistics underscore his value:
- Appearances: 144
- Goals: 45
- Assists: 8
With the January transfer window approaching, all eyes will be on whether Palace's resolve is tested by an early offer, or if they hold firm for a major sale next summer to fund their own squad rebuild.
