Jean-Philippe Mateta has informed Crystal Palace of his desire to leave, amid growing interest across England and Europe.
The France striker has 18 months remaining on his deal and is not planning to extend his stay.
Juventus have already tested Palace’s resolve this month but failed to meet a valuation close to £40m. Meanwhile, Aston Villa remain long-term admirers and continue monitoring the situation closely.
Palace manager Oliver Glasner has acknowledged the club’s openness to negotiations. “There will be a price that Crystal Palace [accept], with 18 months left on his contract,” he said.
“We’d do the deal, if JP wants. If nobody pays that price, then he will stay.” However, uncertainty now surrounds whether Palace can realistically hold firm.
The Eagles are already reeling from major departures in recent months. Eberechi Eze left for Arsenal in the summer, while captain Marc Guehi joined Manchester City this January. Glasner himself has confirmed he will step down at season’s end, further compounding instability. Following defeat to Sunderland, he accused the hierarchy of leaving the squad “abandoned” by recruitment decisions.
he FA Cup humiliation against non-league Macclesfield further exposed Palace’s fragile moment. Unsurprisingly, Mateta’s stance has not shocked many supporters.
The striker’s ambitions have always been clear since his resurgence over the past 18 months. He wants Champions League football and believes he can cement a place with France. His international prospects have improved dramatically since Glasner’s arrival. Mateta made his senior France debut in October and has scored in his last two appearances.
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Palace turmoil fuels Mateta’s desire for a new challenge
Sources suggest Mateta feels let down by unfulfilled promises around contracts, recruitment, and ambition. As a result, he is keen to pursue a fresh challenge while his value remains high.
Timing is awkward for Palace, already winless in ten matches across competitions. Injuries have stripped Glasner of key options, further weakening their push for momentum.
Daniel Munoz remains sidelined, while Daichi Kamada is still unavailable. Striker Ismaila Sarr has missed nine matches while on international duty, helping the Lions of Teranga win AFCON.
Mateta himself has been managing a knee issue but continues playing through discomfort. Nevertheless, his Premier League scoring record keeps him firmly in demand.
Palace broke their transfer record signing Brennan Johnson from Tottenham this month. Yet with the window closing on 2 February, more business appears unavoidable.
Tags: Jean-Philippe Mateta, Crystal Palace, #CPFC, Juventus, Aston Villa, Selhurst Park, Ismaila Sarr, Brennan Johnson.
