Jean-Philippe Mateta is reportedly ready to swap Crystal Palace for AC Milan in the winter transfer window.
Jean-Philippe Mateta has made his intentions clear to leave Crystal Palace for AC Milan. The French striker has his sights firmly set on a move to San Siro, and he is hopeful that a deal can be agreed as early as this weekend.
According to Sky Sports, Mateta’s stance has been acknowledged by Crystal Palace, who are aware that the 27-year-old views Milan as the ideal next step in his career. While the Rossoneri are not competing in Europe this season, they sit second in Serie A and are firmly on course to return to the Champions League next term.
From Mateta’s perspective, leading the line for one of Europe’s most storied clubs would significantly strengthen his chances of retaining his place in France’s squad for this summer’s World Cup.
Crystal Palace head coach Oliver Glasner all but confirmed developments were moving quickly when he omitted Mateta from the squad to face Nottingham Forest, citing ongoing transfer interest from Milan. However, Crystal Palace remain firm on one key condition: the Frenchman will only be allowed to leave once a suitable replacement is secured.
The Eagles have already taken steps in that direction, completing a loan deal for Evann Guessand from Aston Villa, while talks continue with Wolverhampton Wanderers over striker Jorgen Strand Larsen. Once Crystal Palace are satisfied with their attacking depth, they are expected to green-light Mateta’s departure.
Milan, for their part, are keen to structure the deal creatively. The Italian giants are prepared to pay around £35 million for Mateta on a permanent basis in the summer but would prefer to bring him in immediately on loan, with an obligation to buy at the end of the season. Importantly, the move is not dependent on any outgoing transfer, with the club having recently renegotiated their debts on more favourable terms, easing immediate financial pressure.
Under head coach Massimiliano Allegri, Milan continue to emphasise Champions League qualification as the primary objective, though with only domestic commitments remaining, a late push in the Scudetto race is not being ruled out. The squad has already been reinforced with veteran forward Niclas Fullkrug arriving on loan from West Ham United as short-term cover, but Mateta is viewed as a longer-term solution.
Tactically, Mateta is earmarked to partner Rafael Leao and Christian Pulisic in Allegri’s preferred system, particularly with Santiago Gimenez sidelined until March. Milan are also open to listening to offers for Christopher Nkunku amid interest from Fenerbahce and AS Roma, though Mateta’s arrival is not contingent on any sale.
Juventus have also explored the possibility of signing Mateta, but only on a straight loan deal, which does not appeal to either Crystal Palace or the player. Milan’s clear intent, coupled with Mateta’s unwavering preference, places the Rossoneri firmly in pole position.
With Glasner already signalling his absence from Crystal Palace matchday plans, all signs point towards an imminent breakthrough. If Crystal Palace can finalise their attacking reinforcements in time, Jean-Philippe Mateta’s long-desired move to AC Milan could soon become reality.
