Jean-Philippe Mateta won’t feature in Crystal Palace’s squad for their Premier League game against Nottingham Forest, as uncertainty over his future continues to grow. The 28-year-old striker has reportedly made his intentions clear behind the scenes that he wants a switch to Serie A giants AC Milan.
This was reported by sport expert Fabrizio Romano via his official X account.
He posted:
Jean-Philippe Mateta will not be in Crystal Palace squad this weekend.Negotiations with AC Milan continue after personal terms agreed.
Softfootball understands that after informing Crystal Palace of his desire to leave this month, while also ruling out a move to the Saudi Pro League, Mateta has already agreed to personal terms with the Italian club, with Champions League football seen as the main attraction.
His Selhurst Park contract now enters its final 18 months, adding extra urgency to what could be a major January exit. AC Milan have tabled a £35 million proposal for Mateta, structured as a loan with an obligation to buy next summer. This method allows Milan to bring him in straight away while deferring full payment.
Their interest has grown especially urgent, with injuries to key attackers like Christian Pulisic, Rafael Leão, and Santiago Gimenez leaving gaps in their frontline. Milan are serious about securing the Palace striker.
Palace, meanwhile, insist they won’t let Mateta leave without first lining up a replacement. They are reportedly close to completing a loan deal for Aston Villa forward Evann Guessand, which includes a £28 million obligation to buy triggered by appearance clauses.
The urgency is real for Palace, who recently sold captain Marc Guehi to Manchester City for £20 million. With the transfer window closing Monday, February 2, time is running short.
Despite strong interest from Milan and Mateta’s clear preference, no final decision has been taken yet. For now, the striker waits, while Palace juggle pressure and patience in equal measure.
