Liverpool could be set for a shock swoop for Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta after reports from France suggested the two parties met in Paris
14:17, 14 Jul 2025Updated 14:17, 14 Jul 2025
Jean-Philippe Mateta
Liverpool have made contact over Jean-Philippe Mateta
Liverpool have launched a shock move for Crystal Palace star Jean-Philippe Mateta.
Arne Slot has been busy in the transfer window so far this summer and Milos Kerkez, Jeremie Frimpong and Florian Wirtz have all arrived before pre-season. However, Slot isn't done yet and he's turned his attention to the Palace star.
The Reds are keen to defend their Premier League crown and appear to have identified up front as a position that could be upgraded.
Hugo Ekitike and Alexander Isak have both been linked with moves to Anfield this summer, but according to Foot Mercato, Liverpool have turned their attention to Mateta.
Arne Slot
Arne Slot is looking for a striker(Image: Getty Images)
The Frenchman, 28, netted 14 goals for Palace last time out, and the French outlet reports that Mateta's and Liverpool's representatives met in Paris to discuss a potential move.
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It adds Mateta is seen as a cheaper option and could move for around €50million (£43m). However, other French reports have his fee as high as €60m (£52m).
Mateta has a contract with the Eagles until 2027.
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The Reds are looking to move on Darwin Nunez this summer. Nunez joined Liverpool for an initial £64m fee from Benfica three years ago, but he has struggled to secure a regular role under Slot.
The Uruguayan made 47 appearances in all competitions last season, but started just eight league games, scoring seven goals across those games.
Nunez has been linked to Napoli, but the Reds aren't budging for £52m asking price.