Crystal Palace Set Sky-High Asking Price for AC Milan-Linked Jean-Philippe Mateta
Crystal Palace have reportedly placed a very high asking price on in-form striker Jean-Philippe Mateta, amid growing interest from AC Milan, according to one journalist close to the situation. The French forward, who has enjoyed a breakout spell of consistent goalscoring in the Premier League, is now attracting serious attention from several major European clubs โ but Palace are making it clear that he will not come cheap.
Matetaโs recent form has transformed him from a rotational option into one of Palaceโs most important attacking weapons. With his physicality, improved link-up play, and a sharper eye for goal, the 27-year-old has become central to the clubโs tactical structure under manager Oliver Glasner. That sharply rising importance is a major reason why Palace are reluctant to sell unless a massive offer arrives.
According to reports, Palace have warned interested parties โ AC Milan included โ that they value the Frenchman far higher than earlier estimations. The message from London is simple: Mateta is not a bargain, he is an asset, and any club that wants him must pay a premium. One journalist described the valuation as โvery high,โ noting that Milan may be forced to reconsider their strategy if they hope to bring the striker to Serie A.
For Milan, the interest in Mateta is understandable. The Rossoneri are actively searching for long-term stability up front after an inconsistent period with their striking options. With Olivier Giroud now in the twilight of his career and Luka Joviฤ unable to consistently deliver, the club has placed priority on securing a physically dominant No. 9 capable of leading the line. Mateta fits that profile โ but the price tag may be a stumbling block.
The French forwardโs contract situation further strengthens Palaceโs hand. With several years remaining on his deal, the Premier League side faces no pressure to sell. They regard Mateta as a player entering his prime and believe his value will only continue to rise, especially if he maintains his current scoring trajectory. From their perspective, losing him mid-project is a risk they can offset only with an extraordinary financial return.
Milan, on the other hand, must weigh up whether Matetaโs profile and potential fit justify the investment. The clubโs recruitment department has been keen on identifying undervalued talents in recent years, opting for strategic purchases rather than blockbuster fees. A deal for Mateta would require a shift in that approach โ unless Palace soften their stance, which at present appears unlikely.
Still, the Rossoneri are monitoring the situation closely. While the negotiations are not advanced, the interest is real, and Milan are expected to keep Mateta on their list heading into the next transfer window. Much will depend on how far they are willing to push financially, and whether alternative targets emerge in the coming months.
For now, the message remains clear: Crystal Palace are not prepared to let Jean-Philippe Mateta leave unless a significant, top-tier offer arrives. And with AC Milan still searching for their next star striker, this transfer story is one that could continue to develop as the window approaches.
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