AC Milan and Juventus had serious interest in Crystal Palace‘s Jean-Philippe Mateta in the winter market.
The Rossoneri made concrete advances to acquire the striker services and agreed a deal with Crystal Palace. However, the move didn’t go through due to concern over his fitness.
Back in February, Sport Witness covered claims from Italy that three doctors were involved in the medical and told Milan to steer clear.
Milan sporting director Igli Tare later confirmed problems during the medical but kept the door open for a future move.
The France international was expected to undergo surgery for his knee problem and consulted multiple specialities. He eventually decided not to go under the knife and use a different method to treat his injury.
Mateta spent over a month on the sidelines and returned to action in March. Since then, the 28-year-old has played nine matches, scoring three goals. His overall tally this season is 13 goals and three assists from 43 matches.
Italy option for Crystal Palace star
Calciomercato have a report on Jean-Philippe Mateta’s future after this season.
They first point out his failed moves to Juventus and AC Milan and how he has done well since recovering from injury. In short, there don’t seem to be any fitness concerns.
Paul Latouche, the frontman’s agent, has ignited transfer rumours after posting a picture of himself at the San Siro. He was at the stadium to follow Milan’s goalless draw against Juventus last week.
The representative was in the VIP section, in the presence of representatives from both the Italian clubs.
Mateta is still a market opportunity for both Milan and the Turin clubs, and the price would be lower than it was in January.
Mateta’s desire to change clubs has ‘never been absent’ and the Eagles are also open to cashing in from his sale. In short, his exit is brewing and the player could leave Selhurst Park after this season.
Contract, value and agent info
Jean-Philippe Mateta will have a year left on his contract after this season. Therefore, the next window will be Crystal Palace’s last chance to earn a good fee from his sale.
Transfermarkt value him at €35m and agent Paul Latouche manages the Frenchman.
It’s unclear where he’ll move next, but his future seems to be away from Oliver Glasner’s side.