Juventus are considering a surprise January move for Crystal Palace striker Jean Philippe Mateta and have already opened lines of communication over a potential transfer, according to Sky Sports Italy reporter Gianluca Di Marzio.
The Serie A heavyweights are looking to strengthen their forward line and have identified the France international as a possible addition, a development that would come as a major concern for Palace.
Juventus make contact over Mateta deal
Mateta has been hailed as one of the Premier League’s standout forwards in recent seasons and was famously labelled “phenomenal” by Paul Merson. Although his form has dipped slightly this term, he remains Palace’s leading scorer across all competitions with eight goals.
His consistency over recent campaigns has attracted interest from several top clubs, with Juventus now joining the hunt as they search for a long term alternative to Dusan Vlahovic. Di Marzio reports that initial contact has already been made with Palace, who have set an asking price of at least €35 million, around £30 million.
Juventus are understood to feel that valuation is steep for a player whose contract runs until 2027, but discussions are continuing. The move has reportedly been approved by head coach Luciano Spalletti, who is an admirer of Mateta, although an agreement this month is far from guaranteed.
Sources at GIVEMESPORT suggest the striker would be receptive to a switch to Italy and could also consider seeing out his deal in London before leaving at the end of his contract if no transfer materialises sooner.
Palace at a crossroads
Despite the progress made under Oliver Glasner, Crystal Palace now face some difficult decisions about their future direction. Marc Guehi could depart when his deal expires in 2026 amid strong interest from Manchester City, while Glasner himself is said to be planning an exit once his contract ends this summer.
With Mateta and Adam Wharton also attracting attention, the prospect of multiple high profile departures is a real worry. However, Palace are equally aware of the risk of losing key players for nothing, which makes a sale more tempting if the right offer arrives.
Should Juventus meet Palace’s demands, the club may be forced into a tough call. Finding a suitable replacement for Mateta would be challenging, and persuading supporters that letting him go is the right move could prove even harder.