In a summer transfer window already buzzing with speculation, Crystal Palace has delivered a clear message: their prized striker, Jean-Philippe Mateta, is not for sale. This declaration comes after Italian club Atalanta`s significant €34.7 million (£30 million) offer for the player was swiftly rejected.
The interest in Mateta is hardly surprising. Scarcely had the champagne from Crystal Palace`s remarkable 2025 FA Cup victory settled, than the formidable striker found himself at the centre of transfer discussions. Mateta, whose prolific form has been instrumental in Palace`s recent successes, including that historic cup win, is clearly a player in high demand.
Over the past two seasons, Mateta has showcased impressive consistency, averaging 15 Premier League goals. His overall contribution stands at a remarkable 41 goals from 104 appearances across all competitions during the same period. Such statistics paint a picture of a reliable, potent forward, exactly the kind of asset clubs are desperate to acquire. Crystal Palace, recognizing his value, triggered an extension clause in his contract last December, securing his services until the summer of 2027. This move effectively reinforces their bargaining position, making any potential suitor`s task significantly harder.
On the other side of the negotiating table is Atalanta, a club currently navigating its own challenging transition. Having recently sanctioned the blockbuster sale of Mateo Retegui, the 2024-25 Serie A top goalscorer, to Saudi Pro League side Al-Qadsiah for a staggering €65 million, La Dea finds itself with a considerable financial windfall but a gaping void in its attacking line. Retegui`s departure, alongside a change in head coaches, necessitates a swift and effective recruitment strategy.
Atalanta`s urgency is further compounded by their existing squad dynamics. Gianluca Scamacca, another key forward, is currently recuperating from a series of injuries that sidelined him for the majority of the 2024-25 campaign. Moreover, Ademola Lookman, whose explosive talent has been vital, is reportedly the subject of interest from Inter, potentially leaving Atalanta severely depleted up front. It appears the Bergamo-based club is casting a wide net, with Fulham`s Rodrigo Muniz, Lecce`s Nikola Krstovic, and Genk`s Tolu Arokodare also mentioned as alternative targets. However, the initial ambitious bid for Mateta suggests he was, at least for a moment, their prime objective.
The question now remains: will Atalanta, flush with cash from the Retegui sale, return with an improved offer for Mateta? Or will Crystal Palace`s steadfast refusal signal the end of this particular pursuit? Given Mateta`s pivotal role in their recent FA Cup triumph and his consistent goal-scoring prowess, it`s a testament to his importance that Palace is unwilling to part ways with him, even for a substantial fee. This summer`s transfer saga continues, with Jean-Philippe Mateta firmly placed as a cornerstone of Crystal Palace`s future ambitions rather than a lucrative outgoing.
