Jean-Philippe Mateta Has Already Signed a Deal to Play for Milan
AC Milan are accelerating their move for Jean-Philippe Mateta and have already reached a verbal agreement with Crystal Palace. The market tightens, time is running out, and Serie A awaits a statement signing before the deadline.
Milan and Crystal Palace reach an agreement for Mateta
AC Milan have taken a decisive step in the transfer market. According to reports from close to the negotiations, the Rossoneri have reached a verbal agreement with Crystal Palace for Jean-Philippe Mateta, a move that could reshape the Italian club’s attack in the short term. While the understanding between clubs is in place, the scenario remains open and dependent on several parallel moves.
According to information revealed by Sacha Tavolieri, the initial agreement was sealed recently, but the complexity of the winter window keeps the final outcome on hold. Palace, fully aware of the strategic value of their striker, are weighing whether they can afford an immediate exit without weakening their attacking structure.
Mateta: a rising valuation
Milan’s interest is no coincidence. Jean-Philippe Mateta is going through a period of footballing maturity that has placed him on the radar of several European clubs. This season, the French forward has scored eight goals in 23 Premier League matches, numbers that confirm his reliability in one of the most demanding leagues in the world.
His upward trajectory is backed by strong previous campaigns: 19 goals in 39 games during the 2023/24 season and 17 goals in 46 appearances in 2024/25, figures that were key in helping Palace lift the first FA Cup in their history. A résumé that explains why his valuation is hovering around $48 million.
The market tightens: competition and key decisions
This operation is not moving along a single track. Nottingham Forest have also shown firm interest in Mateta and are planning to reignite their push after an initial bid fell short. According to sources close to the market, the striker has already expressed his desire to leave Palace, with the Champions League emerging as one of the decisive factors in his thinking.
Meanwhile, Palace are assessing alternatives to avoid being left exposed. The potential arrival of Jorgen Strand Larsen in south London is a key piece of the puzzle, but his situation is still unresolved. Without a proven replacement secured, allowing Mateta to leave in mid-season is widely seen as a significant risk.
Milan accelerate as time runs out
From Italy, the pressure is mounting. According to journalist Gianluca Di Marzio, Milan are working against the clock to try to complete the striker’s arrival in this very window, even though the initial agreement pointed towards a summer move. The trip of Mateta’s agent to Milan is being interpreted as a clear sign that talks have entered a decisive phase.
The possible departure of Christopher Nkunku could unlock the scenario and allow Milan to bring the deal forward through a creative formula. In a market where timing and strategy matter as much as money, Mateta has become a central piece.
