Liverpool are in talks to sign Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta after holding a meeting with the French centre-forward, according to Foot Mercato.
Mateta endured a difficult start to life in England in the early stages of his move to Crystal Palace, but he's begun to flourish more recently, particularly under Oliver Glasner. The towering forward, who can often be seen leading the line with his shirt tucked in an old-fashioned manner, has been linked with a departure this summer due to his contract expiring in 2027.
The Reds are likely to be in the market for a new striker before the end of the window due to a lack of options in the final third, with the previously-linked Hugo Ekitike now the subject of a bid from Newcastle United.
Although the likes of Cody Gakpo and Luis Diaz have been deployed in a central role at times at Anfield, neither player is a natural striker, while Darwin Nunez has struggled with inconsistency.
Liverpool in Talks to Sign Jean-Philippe Mateta
He met the Merseyside club in Paris
Jean-Philippe Mateta celebrating for Crystal Palace
According to a report from Foot Mercato, Liverpool have initiated contact with Crystal Palace striker Mateta as they explore options to strengthen their attack this summer. With Nunez likely to depart, the Reds are actively seeking a new number nine ahead of the 2025/2026 season.
Jean-Philippe Mateta's Premier League statistics - Crystal Palace squad ranking
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Liverpool officials met with Mateta and his agent in Paris to discuss a potential move, while it could cost in the region of £43m to prise him away from Selhurst Park. Described as 'phenomenal' by Overlap analyst HTOMUFC, Mateta could be a smart addition for Liverpool at a reasonable price, considering his Premier League experience.
It might not be the marquee striker that Liverpool fans are hoping for, but the addition of Florian Wirtz is going to mean they are likely to add more goals from midfield. It's been a busy window for the Reds who are looking to defend the Premier League title.
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Statistics courtesy of WhoScored. Correct as of 14-07-25.