
Aston Villa, Leeds United, Newcastle United vying for Jean-Philippe Mateta
A trio of Premier League sides could angle a move for Jean-Philippe Mateta in January and test Crystal Palace with an approach.
According to Caught Offside, Aston Villa, Leeds United, and Newcastle United are all vying to make approaches for Jean-Philippe Mateta ahead of the January window. The striker’s future at Crystal Palace is far from certain, which could see some of those teams test the waters with a viable approach.
Jean-Philippe Mateta was one of those widely expected to leave Crystal Palace during the summer window, as the market was building up to be one for strikers. There were plenty of movements about No.9s, with so many top clubs recruiting in the position.
Mateta was certainly one of the in-form Premier League frontmen heading into the summer, but reports were stating he was close to signing a new deal at Crystal Palace. However, the report states otherwise, insisting that his future at Selhurst Park looks far from certain while suggesting talks over a new contract may have potentially stalled.
With a contract in place until 2027, Palace could be expected to sell the Frenchman next summer if they cannot agree on a new deal. Palace reportedly wants £40 million for the striker, which may be a bit high, but given the interest, they will demand as much. A trio of clubs comprising Newcastle United, Aston Villa and Leeds United are all considering making approaches ahead of the January window.
All those teams are considering strengthening the front of their attack with a proven goalscorer, although there might be doubts with Newcastle United in that regard. They did sign Nick Woltemade and Yoane Wissa to end their window in style, meaning the chances of the Magpies making an offer for Mateta would mean one of those two front men have failed to impress by January.
Aston Villa and Leeds United are contemplating Jean-Philippe Mateta approach
Aston Villa did end the window with two significant signings to bolster their attack, with Jadon Sancho arriving on loan from Manchester United. They had pondered bringing in a new striker and did see Evan Guessand arrive, while Harvey Elliott was also signed on a permanent deal from Liverpool. While they may not need another striker, their push for Champions League places could force their hand on Mateta.
Meanwhile, Leeds United are also considering a move for Mateta, but one might expect them to be behind the queue. Any move from the Yorkshire club needs to have a good enough contract on offer, while their position in the league in January will also prove crucial to have the £40 million-rated Premier League striker’s attention, if at all he considers Leeds United over other sides.