Jean-Philippe Mateta's move to AC Milan has fallen through, potentially cancelling Jorgen Strand Larsen's transfer from Wolves to Crystal Palace.placeholder image
Jean-Philippe Mateta's move to AC Milan has fallen through, potentially cancelling Jorgen Strand Larsen's transfer from Wolves to Crystal Palace. | Getty Images
The latest updates on the Jorgen Strand Larsen and Jean-Philippe Mateta transfer sagas.
Jean-Philippe Mateta’s deadline day transfer from Crystal Palace to AC Milan has reportedly fallen through, putting Jorgen Strand Larsen’s move to Selhurst Park in serious doubt.
Mateta was due to join Milan on a permanent deal worth around €30 million (£26m), however a knee problem was flagged in the first part of the France international striker’s medical. Milan wanted Mateta to undergo further tests and he’s failed them, so the Serie A giants have since pulled the plug.
This is according to reputable Italian journalist Gianluca di Marzio, who reports Milan have decided against signing Mateta following further checks and examinations on his fitness. Fellow Serie A side Juventus have been heavily linked this window, though it awaits to be seen whether the Old Lady will rear their heads.
Wolverhampton Wanderers forward Strand Larsen has been lined up as a replacement for Mateta, with a bid accepted yesterday worth £43 million plus £5 million in add-ons. It awaits to be seen whether the Eagles are still willing to sign Strand Larsen if Mateta stays, but it seems unlikely considering the cost.
Nottingham Forest and Leeds United were credited with interest in Strand Larsen earlier this month, though neither were willing to match Palace’s offer when it was presented last week. There’s still time for a late hijack, but it would be quite something with only a few hours left of the window.
Southampton could feel £7m domino effect
If Strand Larsen doesn’t sign for Palace, it may have an impact on Wolves’ imminent signing of Adam Armstrong. The Old Gold reached an agreement yesterday to sign the striker from Southampton for £7 million plus add-ons, very much with the likely relegation to the Championship in mind.
Wolves could still sign Armstrong even if Strand Larsen stays, as their Norwegian no.9 would inevitably leave in the summer and a replacement would be needed. Wanderers aren’t overly strapped for cash, either, so they would still be able to afford Armstrong today.
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