Chelsea have made a late entry in the chase for Jean-Philippe Mateta despite the striker reportedly agreeing on terms with Aston Villa.
According to Football Transfers, Chelsea are rumoured to have asked to be kept informed on Jean-Philippe Mateta’s situation. The striker is expected to leave Crystal Palace before the January window shuts, with the report stating Aston Villa have already agreed terms with the striker, with a fee yet to be finalised.
Crystal Palace have another huge decision on their hands that would see their sporting project deteriorate even further. Following the sale of Marc Guehi and the decision from Oliver Glasner to suggest he would depart at the end of this season, the club are now staring at the prospect of losing star striker Jean-Philippe Mateta.
Earlier in the day, Fabrizio Romano reported that Mateta and his camp have informed Palace of the player’s desire to leave the club. There are suggestions that the London club would seek at least €40 million to sell him, as Juventus failed with a loan offer lately.
Juventus have since cooled their interest and moved on to other targets, which has allowed Aston Villa to enter the frame for the 28-year-old striker. Palace had been keen on blocking a move to Villa, but have considered an exchange with the Birmingham giants involving Evan Guessand.
Aston Villa remain in the driving seat as things stand, with the report stating Mateta already has an agreement in place with Unai Emery’s side. Mateta is frustrated with Palace’s indecision at the moment, as he seeks a departure this month.
Chelsea to enter Jean-Pjilippe Mateta race?
There might be a new twist in the tale as Chelsea have reportedly asked to be kept informed about Mateta’s situation. The idea of signing a proven goalscorer with ample Premier League and international experience would entice the Blues into making a late decision.
However, there will be some doubts whether they are serious about Mateta, given the 28-year-old striker falls well outside of the kind of transfer targets Chelsea usually prefer. While there might be some interest from the Blues, the chances of Chelsea signing the Palace star remain in doubt.
