Aston Villa could make a shock move to land Premier League icon and Crystal Palace star, Jean-Philippe Mateta, in the upcoming transfer windows in 2026 - with reports suggesting that the west Midlands side will look to make formal bids for the Frenchman's services in order to test Palace's nerve in the transfer window as a potential mass exodus takes place in the capital city.
The report by CaughtOffside states that the upcoming transfer window could see a 'fierce' battle for Mateta's signature, with Villa making the French striker a priority target for the winter months.
Report: Aston Villa Will 'Make Formal Offers' for Mateta in January
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Mateta has been on fire for Palace over the past 18 months, having come to the fore under Eagles boss Oliver Glasner - notching 16 Premier League goals in the 2023/24 campaign, before 14 last season and a further one strike this season to secure Palace their first win of the campaign, incidentally against Villa away from home.
The Frenchman, 28, has endured the form of his life for the Eagles, being renowned for his finishing, strength and clever movement, popping up with crucial goals and moments for the Selhurst Park outfit.
As a result, Palace have slapped a price tag of £40million upon the 28-year-old's head, having increased their valuation amid interest from clubs such as Villa. Although Mateta has two years left on his contract, his future is not settled and talks to extend his contract are now seen as 'unproductive' - letting Unai Emery's side into the race.
Sources close to the situation believe that Villa will put pressure on Palace throughout the January window by testing them with formal offers. Villa are keen to add depth to Emery's squad, having so far failed to score a single goal so far this season, which sees them 19th in the Premier League table.
There is still time to turn that form around, but the Villans must act sharply if they are to avoid a bottom-half finish this season and Mateta, alongside Ollie Watkins, could be a 'phenomenal' proposition for the Birmingham-based side.
Villa lost a similar profile of striker in Jhon Duran after his move to the Saudi Pro League in the winter transfer window, and they have been unable to sign a partner for him since, leaving Donyell Malen and Morgan Rogers as backup options. That could tempt Mateta to come in and rival Watkins for places in the squad should he make the move to the Europa League outfit.
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