Crystal Palace reject bid for Jean-Philippe Mateta

A bid has been rejected by Crystal Palace for long-term Manchester United target Jean-Philippe Mateta.

The tall striker has been a revelation since the arrival of Oliver Glasner and has gained interest from a handful of clubs in Europe after scoring 46 goals since the start of the 2023/24 campaign.

Talks over a renewal to extend the Frenchman’s stay at Selhurst Park have stalled, and with just 18 months left on his deal, he could leave on a cut-price deal to avoid the potential of him signing a pre-contract agreement.

Furthermore, Mateta has ambitions of playing in the Champions League – which he sees as a platform to showcase what he can offer the French national team at the World Cup this summer.

According to journalist Alan Nixon, Crystal Palace have rejected a bid submitted by Italian giants Juventus as they attempt to get the best possible deal for their prize asset following the departures of Eberechi Eze and Marc Guehi in the previous two windows.

“Juve want the big French striker but are reluctant to meet the asking price and may only reach around £25 million cash” Nixon reported.

“The Serie A side would trade Canadian striker Johnathan Davies who has been a Palace target before.”

He also confirmed that Jean-Philippe Mateta is not only keen on the prospect of moving but the club has informed him that his wish will be granted should a suitable bid come in.

Following the failed bid, Juventus have now expressed their interest in Joshua Zirkzee, who is also a target of AS Roma.

If Zirkzee leaves Old Trafford this month, Manchester United may explore a deal to sign Mateta who has been a long-term target of the club due to his physical profile and goal-scoring ability.

The signing would provide much-needed firepower to Michael Carrick’s attacking options and another recognised striker to relieve some of the pressure that has been placed on the young Benjamin Sesko who has struggled to hit form since his transfer.