Journalist: Crystal Palace star agrees personal terms on £30m Serie A exit

Milan Move Signals New Chapter for Mateta

Jean-Philippe Mateta is edging closer to a high-profile switch to AC Milan after agreeing personal terms with the Italian giants, in a move that could reshape both his career and Crystal Palace’s attacking plans.

As first reported by Gary Jacob in The Sunday Times, the France forward has reached an agreement on a long-term contract running until 2030, with AC Milan now locked in negotiations with Palace over a deal valued at around £30 million, including performance-related bonuses.

For Mateta, the move represents a significant step towards consistent European football. At 28, he believes the time is right to test himself at a higher continental level, having established himself as Palace’s leading striker over the past four seasons.

His absence from recent matchday squads has further fuelled speculation, while interest from Nottingham Forest and other Premier League clubs has underlined his growing market value. However, AC Milan have moved quickest, positioning themselves at the front of the queue.

Photo: IMAGO

Palace Stance Reflects Strategic Transfer Planning

Crystal Palace are determined not to be rushed into a sale, despite Mateta’s clear desire to explore new opportunities. Manager Oliver Glasner has made it known internally that any departure must be balanced by a suitable replacement.

Palace’s recruitment team have been active in recent weeks, securing Evann Guessand on loan from Aston Villa, but sources close to the club suggest this alone is not viewed as sufficient cover if Mateta leaves.

The south London side have a track record of late-window activity, often holding out for maximum value before finalising key deals. That approach is once again evident, with Palace reluctant to weaken their squad midway through a competitive campaign.

Financially, the proposed fee would represent strong business, reflecting Mateta’s consistent output since his arrival from Mainz in 2021. Yet sporting priorities remain central, particularly with Palace keen to maintain stability under Glasner’s evolving system.

Numbers Highlight Mateta Impact at Selhurst Park

Since joining Palace, Mateta has developed into one of the club’s most reliable performers. His record of 56 goals in 186 appearances underlines both his durability and his importance to successive managerial regimes.

Last season proved especially significant, as he played a key role in Palace’s FA Cup triumph, further enhancing his reputation domestically and abroad. His France debut in the previous campaign also marked a personal milestone, reflecting his upward trajectory.

Tactically, Mateta has offered Palace a valuable focal point. His physical presence, aerial ability, and improving link-up play have made him central to their attacking structure, particularly against low-block opposition.

At AC Milan, he would be expected to adapt to a more possession-based system, with greater emphasis on movement and combination play. Club insiders believe his profile fits their current recruitment strategy, blending experience with peak-age potential.

Wider Implications for AC Milan and Palace

For AC Milan, Mateta’s arrival could trigger further changes. Reports suggest his signing may influence the future of Christopher Nkunku, with squad restructuring underway as the club targets domestic and European success.

Milan’s willingness to invest heavily reflects renewed ambition after mixed recent campaigns. Securing Mateta would add proven scoring depth and provide tactical flexibility across competitions.

From Palace’s perspective, the coming weeks will be decisive. Failure to secure an adequate replacement could undermine progress made under Glasner, while a well-executed reinvestment could strengthen the squad long-term.

The situation highlights a familiar Premier League dilemma: balancing financial opportunity with sporting ambition. Palace’s handling of the Mateta deal may ultimately define their season.

With negotiations ongoing, all parties are aware that timing will be critical. Should an agreement be reached, Mateta’s move to AC Milan will stand as one of the most significant transfers involving Palace in recent years, signalling both his personal rise and the club’s evolving status within the market.