Crystal Palace are facing a major battle to retain their star striker Jean-Philippe Mateta, with the player reportedly open to a departure from Selhurst Park as European giants AC Milan line up a sensational transfer.
Milan's Blockbuster Move
According to a report from TEAMtalk, AC Milan are planning a 'spectacular transfer' for the French international. A source close to the situation has revealed that Mateta is 'open to leaving' the South London club, with approximately 18 months remaining on his current contract, which expires at the end of the 2026-27 campaign.
The 28-year-old forward, who joined Palace in January 2022, has become a pivotal figure for the Eagles. He has made 172 appearances for the club, scoring 54 goals and providing 12 assists. His form even earned him his first senior cap for the French national team in October 2025.
Contract Stalemate and European Ambitions
Despite being in talks over a new deal, negotiations between Mateta and Crystal Palace have reached an impasse. The London Evening Standard reports that the club will need to 'significantly up their offer' of a new wage packet if they hope to convince him to stay.
A key factor in the striker's potential exit is his ambition to play in the UEFA Champions League. While this is not an impossible dream with Palace currently sitting fifth in the Premier League after 12 games, having lost just twice, the immediate opportunity to compete in Europe's elite competition is a powerful lure.
An offer in the region of £40 million could be enough to secure his signature when the transfer window reopens in January. Although Premier League heavyweights Arsenal, Liverpool, and Manchester United have also been named as admirers, a move to Serie A with the seven-time European champions is understood to be Mateta's preferred choice.
Broader Implications for Palace
The potential departure of their top scorer is not the only concern for manager Oliver Glasner. The club is also engaged in a fight to keep hold of defender Marc Guehi, whose contract is winding down, while emerging talent Adam Wharton is attracting serious interest from several other Premier League sides.
While the Eagles will not 'block' a potential exit for Mateta, the club's hierarchy will insist that their full valuation for the player is met before sanctioning any deal. The coming weeks will be crucial as the South London club prepares for key fixtures against Manchester United and Burnley, with this transfer saga looming large in the background.
