Crystal Palace are standing firm in their efforts to retain Jean-Philippe Mateta, despite rising transfer interest from top European clubs, including Manchester United.
In the most recent episode of the Inside Track podcast by Football Insider, senior journalist Pete O’Rourke shed light on the current situation at Selhurst Park. According to his sources, Palace are doing everything possible to ensure the 28-year-old striker remains with the squad beyond the summer transfer window.
Interest in Mateta isn’t limited to English clubs. Italian giants AC Milan are also reportedly monitoring the French forward. Meanwhile, Sporting CP boss Ruben Amorim is said to be eager to bring in a new number nine, further adding to the competition for Mateta’s signature.
Earlier in June, ex-Man United scout Mick Brown revealed that the Red Devils were closely watching Mateta as talks between Palace and the striker over a new deal continued. Liverpool also expressed interest, holding discussions with his representatives in Paris. However, that potential move seems to have cooled off, as Football Insider reported on July 20 that the Merseyside club is now closing in on Hugo Ekitike instead.
Despite the external interest, Mateta remains a key figure in Oliver Glasner’s setup at Palace. Brown believes the club is optimistic about retaining the striker and several other first-team regulars who have attracted transfer speculation.
Pete O’Rourke emphasized Palace’s urgency in keeping their core players amid fears of a mass exodus that could prove disastrous. “There are several clubs keeping tabs on Mateta after a standout season where he netted 17 times across all competitions, playing a pivotal role in their FA Cup triumph,” he said.
“With Premier League clubs like Liverpool and Man United circling, along with interest from AC Milan, Palace are battening down the hatches. The club is already battling to keep Eberechi Eze, who is on Arsenal’s radar, and Marc Guehi, who has caught Liverpool’s attention.”
Losing all three could severely destabilize the team, O’Rourke added. Fortunately for Palace, Mateta still has two years left on his current contract, giving the club a strong position in negotiations.
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