Premier League club eyes surprise swoop for Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta in unexpected transfer move

Aston Villa are considering a move for Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta, according to reports. The Birmingham club faces an urgent need to bolster their attacking options after parting ways with Donyell Malen to Roma, leaving Ollie Watkins as their sole recognised forward option available.

Villa are examining multiple candidates to address this gap. Tammy Abraham represents the primary target, though complications surrounding his current situation could force the club to pursue alternatives. Abraham is presently on loan at Besiktas from Roma, and while Villa have reached an agreement with the Italian club, the Turkish side’s involvement introduces uncertainty to the deal’s progression.

Mateta appears on Villa’s radar as a contingency option should Abraham negotiations stall. The French striker commands substantial wage expectations, with reports indicating he seeks approximately £150,000-a-week, significantly exceeding his current Palace salary. Juventus previously explored acquiring Mateta but ultimately withdrew from consideration due to financial constraints and Palace’s refusal to consider loan arrangements.

According to expert analysis, Villa may encounter difficulties completing Mateta’s acquisition during January. If negotiations with Besiktas regarding Abraham’s status prove unsuccessful, Villa would pivot toward Mateta. However, if Abraham’s loan termination can be arranged, Villa may postpone any approach for the Palace forward until the summer transfer window arrives.

Palace manager Oliver Glasner has indicated Mateta could depart when the right financial offer materialises, though his current contract extends through 2027. Since Glasner’s February 2024 appointment, Mateta has transformed significantly, contributing eight goals this season after scoring just eight league goals during his initial two-and-a-half years at Selhurst Park. His recent performance surge has intensified transfer speculation around his future.