AC Milan have taken a significant step towards securing Jean-Philippe Mateta by agreeing personal terms with the Crystal Palace striker, paving the way for advanced discussions between the clubs. The 28-year-old Frenchman has settled on a contract until June 2030 worth around ā¬3.5m per year plus bonuses, making Milan his preferred destination amid interest from other sides. Talks are now focused on whether Palace will sanction a January departure or insist on a summer completion, with the Eagles holding firm on a fee in the ā¬30-35m range.
Mateta's desire for a new challenge has been evident since the summer, when he turned down advances from Nottingham Forest despite a Ā£35m bid. His contract at Selhurst Park runs until June 2027, following an extension signed in 2022, but the final 18 months have prompted Palace to consider cashing in rather than risk a depreciating asset. Under head coach Oliver Glasner, who will depart at season's end, Mateta has started all 23 Premier League matches this campaign, scoring eight goals and providing leadership in a transitional squad. Yet his absence from the squad for Sunday's clash with Forest signals the growing likelihood of an imminent exit.
Mateta's Tactical Appeal at Milan
Mateta's profile aligns neatly with AC Milan's needs under Massimiliano Allegri, who replaced Sergio Conceicao in May 2025. The Rossoneri seek a physical, aerially dominant forward to complement their creative talents, with Mateta's hold-up play and finishing offering a contrast to existing options. His experience in high-stakes environments ā including Palace's FA Cup triumph last season ā adds maturity to a squad pushing for Serie A contention. Allegri's system, emphasising structured build-up and counter-attacks, would benefit from Mateta's ability to occupy defenders and link midfield runs, addressing inconsistencies in their attack this term.
Palace's stance is pragmatic: they will only approve a January sale if a suitable replacement is secured. Interest in Wolverhampton Wanderers' Jorgen Strand Larsen persists, though no agreement has been reached. The potential loss of Mateta, who recovered from a minor knee issue in December 2025 without surgery, would leave a void in Glasner's forward line, particularly given his consistent availability and output amid a challenging campaign.
Financial Drivers and Market Response
The financial equation favours a deal. Palace stand to recoup a healthy profit on the ā¬11m they paid Mainz in 2021, with ā¬30-35m providing funds for reinforcements in a post-Guehi era. For Milan, the fee represents value for a proven goalscorer entering his prime, though they may push for instalments to manage budgets. Betting markets have reacted to the developments, with odds shortening on Mateta's next club. The latest Jean-Philippe Mateta next club odds reflect strong confidence in a Milan switch, though some scepticism lingers over a January completion given Palace's replacement hunt.
Mateta's form this season ā eight league goals without major injury setbacks beyond a brief knee concern ā has restored his market value after a slower 2024-25. His international aspirations, including a push for France's World Cup squad, add motivation for a step up to a club like Milan, where European exposure is guaranteed.
Implications for the Window's Close
As the window nears its Monday deadline, the coming hours will be decisive. Palace's reluctance to weaken mid-season without cover makes a summer timeline more probable, but Milan's push for immediacy ā driven by their own attacking inconsistencies ā could force a breakthrough. If completed now, Mateta's departure would compound Palace's transitional challenges under Glasner, whose exit looms. For Milan, landing him represents shrewd business, bolstering Allegri's options without excessive outlay. Until Palace grant the green light, this remains a deal in progress, but the alignment of personal terms signals strong momentum towards resolution.