AC Milan made a late attempt to sign Crystal Palace’s Jean-Philippe Mateta this month.
Nottingham Forest made advances before the Serie A side stepped in. On Friday, claims from Italy discussed Milan’s effort to hijack Mateta’s from the Reds’ clutches.
Gazzetta dello Sport reported the Rossoneri made quick progress on Thursday evening by reaching an agreement with Crystal Palace.
Nottingham Forest host the Eagles in the league on Sunday. Oliver Glasner has confirmed the 28-year-old won’t be part of the travelling squad but insisted it has “nothing to do with transfers.”
TuttoMercatoWeb, after relaying Glasner’s comments, cover the latest. According to them, Milan have struck an agreement with Crystal Palace for €35m including bonuses and also already agreed personal terms with Mateta for a contract until 2030.
Milan are now working to close the operation so that he can arrive in Italy between today and tomorrow.
Tuttosport also cover the latest on Milan’s ongoing pursuit to sign the Crystal Palace star.
Massimiliano Allegri already wanted the France international at the San Siro last summer, but a move never materialised. His side are now edging closer towards completing the deal.
At the start of this window, Juventus came forward to take him away from Selhurst Park. The Italian media were confident of the Old Lady acquiring his services as he had agreed personal terms with them.
Juventus weren’t able to find an agreement with Crystal Palace. This allowed other clubs to swoop in and Milan are set to win the race.
Tuttosport now report the ‘white smoke is expected today’ as the parties will exchange documents to finalise the operation. The fee is around €35m including bonuses. According to them, Milan are offering a contract until 2029 [TMW said 2030] worth €3.5m per year.
The newspaper further adds Mateta could undergo medical tests with Milan as early as Sunday.
The Rossoneri are edging closer towards completing Mateta’s signing, in this way, they have ‘mocked’ Juventus.