On deadline day, Jean-Philippe Mateta’s Crystal Palace exit fell through.
AC Milan detected issues with his knee during a medical over the weekend. Later, problems also emerged around commission demands from the striker’s entourage.
Milan and Crystal Palace had reached an agreement over a fee. The Frenchman was keen on the deal, as personal terms were also in place.
Now that a deal has fallen through, there is evident frustration in Italy. Milan sporting director Igli Tare has now spoken out about the move, making it clear that a summer transfer is still on the cards.
He spoke to the press ahead of AC Milan’s 3-0 win over Bologna.
The director said – relayed by Corriere dello Sport: “Mateta? The deal was about the future, not the present. As negotiations continued, we saw an opportunity to bring it forward and we tried. ”
Tare clarified that the issues were indeed medical but a summer move is possible.
“Then, during the medicals, we noticed this physical problem and we decided not to go ahead. We’ll see in the future.”
As of now, Mateta is likely to be out of action due to his knee issue. While this would come as frustration to Oliver Glasner’s side, maybe it’s better than losing the Frenchman to Milan altogether.
The 28-year-old can return to action later in the season and then contribute.
His contract at Selhurst Park runs out in 2027, which makes sure that a sale in the summer will also be lucrative for Crystal Palace.
Of course, the value earned from his exit would be lower. But it is far better than losing a key player on a free transfer.
Mateta had initially joined Crystal Palace for only £11m. Even if they sell him for around £20m, they will be making a capital gain on it anyway.