Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta has handed in a transfer request, making it clear he wants to leave Selhurst Park this January. The 28-year-old striker, who has 18 months remaining on his current deal and has declined to sign an extension, has attracted interest from Aston Villa and Juventus.
Since making his senior debut for France in October 2025, Mateta has scored twice in three appearances, fuelling his ambition to feature at the World Cup this summer. He has also expressed a desire to play for a Champions League club or a side likely to qualify for Europe next season.
Despite the striker’s intentions, Palace are standing firm on their valuation, reportedly £35–40 million, and have rejected low offers, including Juventus’ attempt at a minimal loan fee. As manager Oliver Glasner stated last week: “There will be a price that Crystal Palace [accept], with 18 months left on his contract. We’d do the deal, if JP wants. If nobody pays that price, then he will stay.”
The club is navigating a turbulent period. Glasner, who will leave at the end of the season, publicly criticised the Palace hierarchy after the FA Cup shock defeat to Macclesfield, claiming the team had been “abandoned” due to a flawed recruitment strategy. The departures of Marc Guehi to Manchester City and injuries to Daniel Munoz, Daichi Kamada, and Ismaila Sarr have compounded a difficult start to 2026, leaving the Eagles winless in their last ten matches.
Mateta’s frustration reportedly stems from the club not fulfilling promises regarding contracts, recruitment, and overall ambition. Sources suggest he is eager for a new challenge at a club with higher European prospects. His Premier League scoring record—56 goals in 185 appearances—makes him an attractive option for clubs seeking a proven forward.
While the January signing of Brennan Johnson from Tottenham provides a boost, Palace face the reality that selling key figures like Eze, Guehi, and potentially Mateta may erode the spine of the squad, threatening their maiden European adventure. The Eagles’ supporters may enjoy a brief foray into the Conference League, but the loss of key players casts doubt over long-term continental ambitions.
For Mateta, the move represents an opportunity to compete at the highest level and consolidate his place in the French national team. The coming weeks will determine whether Palace can retain their star striker or if he secures the high-profile transfer he seeks.
