- Crystal Palace want new Jean-Philippe Mateta contract
- Man Utd among clubs eyeing Frenchman
- Why he should stay
Crystal Palace are reportedly preparing to offer a lucrative contract to Jean-Philippe Mateta amid interest from AC Milan and Juventus. The French striker has long been on the Serie A giants’ radars.
SportsBoom reports that Palace have stepped up their efforts to hold on to Mateta. His current deal expires in 2027 and he nearly left Selhurst Park in January.
Mateta failed a medical ahead of a proposed £30m switch to the San Siro. Milan are back in the picture, as are Juve. It’s said that Manchester United and Newcastle United have also expressed an interest in the player.
Palace plan Mateta contract
Mateta won Palace fans back over after his failed move to Milan, reclaiming a starting berth in Glasner’s team. He scored the winner in the Eagles’ UEFA Conference League final win over Rayo Vallecano.
The 28-year-old has been with the South London outfit since January 2022. He’s appeared 202 times across competitions, posting 62 goals and 14 assists.
Palace are under pressure to make a decision over Mateta given he has just one year left on his contract. They are aided by the appointment of Pierre Sage, whom the striker is “enthusiastic about working under.”
Milan would appear to be the frontrunners, although Ruben Amorim’s appointment could change the situation. The former Manchester United head coach beat Glasner to the job, and the latter was reportedly the one who suggested signing Mateta during initial talks.
Mateta must stay
If Palace want to build on their Conference League success and target Europa League glory, keeping Mateta will be crucial. The French frontman is among the best strikers in the Premier League and could really suit Sage’s style of play.
Mateta is also a popular figure in the dressing room and his positivity helps the team. A new deal is deserved and he has a chance to make even more history at Selhurst Park.
