Serious Mateta injury behind failed Milan transfer – report

Originally posted on Football Italia | By Lorenzo Bettoni | Last updated Feb 2, 2026 11:48 AM ET

Jean-Philippe Mateta has failed his medical tests with Milan, and according to Sacha Tavolieri, his knee problem is so severe that he’ll have to undergo surgery and remain out of action for at least three months.

Mateta’s move to Milan has collapsed after the Frenchman failed to pass medical tests with the Rossoneri.

Why Mateta didn’t join Milan

LONDON, ENGLAND – DECEMBER 07: Jean-Philippe Mateta of Crystal Palace reacts during the Premier League match between Fulham and Crystal Palace at Craven Cottage on December 07, 2025 in London, England. (Photo by Ryan Pierse/Getty Images)

The Crystal Palace forward was initially checked in London on Sunday, but unconvincing results prompted Milan to make further assessments in Paris today.

Sky Sport Italia reported just a few hours ago that Milan eventually decided against signing the 28-year-old as Mateta had not passed his medical tests.

Transfer expert Sacha Tavolieri adds on X social media that examinations revealed such severe damage that the Palace centre-forward will require knee surgery to make a full recovery.

BECKENHAM, ENGLAND – NOVEMBER 05: Jean-Philippe Mateta laughs during a Crystal Palace FC training session at Crystal Palace FC Training Ground on November 05, 2025 in Beckenham, England. (Photo by Richard Pelham/Getty Images)

This means Mateta will remain out of action for three to four months, according to the report.

With just two hours left to the end of the winter transfer window, Milan are not expected to bring in further reinforcement.

The Serie A giants already signed Niclas Fullkrug from West Ham at the beginning of the January window.

This article first appeared on Football Italia and was syndicated with permission.

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