2 hours ago
1
Juventus Push for Mateta as Crystal Palace Reject Opening Bid
Juventus have stepped up their pursuit of Jean-Philippe Mateta, with developments moving quickly even if an agreement remains some distance away. As reported by Calcio Mercato, the striker has “said yes” to the idea of a move to Turin, but Crystal Palace have firmly rejected the opening offer.
Photo IMAGO
Advertisement
The timing is notable. Juventus come into this period off a disappointing draw against Cagliari, before an important Champions League fixture against Benfica. With squad registration rules preventing any new arrivals from being added before the end of the group phase, head coach Luciano Spalletti must, for now, make do with existing resources.
Mateta Identified as Priority Target
Internally, Juventus have concluded that a physical reference point in attack is required. Sporting figures Damien Comolli and Marco Ottolini are said to have accepted that complications around alternative targets mean Spalletti “needs a powerful number nine, and Mateta is the ideal profile”. Among several names considered, including En-Nesyri and Joshua Zirkzee, the French forward has emerged as the clear priority.
Mateta’s profile, strong, direct, and experienced in the Premier League, fits Juventus’ immediate needs. His contract situation also sharpens interest. He has been with Palace since January 2022 and is tied down until June 2027, a detail that strengthens the English club’s negotiating position.
Photo IMAGO
Advertisement
Player Approval Given to Serie A Move
One crucial signal has already arrived. Mateta has “officially opened the door to a transfer to Italy and to Turin”. That approval matters, particularly in a winter market often defined by hesitation. From Juventus’ perspective, the player’s willingness removes a major obstacle and encourages creative deal structures.
Palace Stand Firm on Deal Structure
Juventus’ first proposal was a loan worth two million euros, with an obligation to buy set at 28 million euros if qualification for the Champions League or Europa League is secured. Crystal Palace, however, have said no. Despite comments from Oliver Glasner suggesting the club is close to a period of dismantling following the sales of their best players, Palace want either a permanent sale or an unconditional obligation to buy.
Photo IMAGO
Advertisement
For now, talks pause. As one source put it, “This is not the moment for conditions”. Discussions may resume later in the window or be deferred altogether.
Our View – EPL Index Analysis
Mateta has become central to Palace’s attacking identity, offering physical presence and reliability in a squad already facing uncertainty. Fans understand market realities, but there is little appetite for weakening the team mid season unless the deal is absolutely right.
There is also weariness around conditional offers. Supporters have seen too many scenarios where obligations hinge on achievements outside Palace’s control. An unconditional fee provides clarity, stability, and the ability to reinvest properly. With European clubs circling Premier League assets every January, Palace fans expect their club to be firm.
Advertisement
Equally, there is realism. If Mateta has indicated openness to a move, that cannot be ignored indefinitely. But most supporters would argue that any sale should happen on Palace’s terms, not dictated by Juventus’ qualification scenarios. Holding firm now sends a message that Palace are not a selling club by default. If Mateta eventually departs, fans want it to be for a fee that reflects his importance and allows the squad to move forward rather than merely cope.
English (US) ·