AC Milan are reportedly edging closer to a full agreement with Crystal Palace over the signing of Jean Philippe Mateta, but there are still a couple of hurdles to clear before the striker can make the move to San Siro.
Italian reports on Friday suggested Milan already have Mateta’s approval, with the forward keen on a January switch to work under Massimiliano Allegri. La Gazzetta dello Sport followed up on Saturday by claiming the Frenchman has agreed terms on a contract running until 2030, worth around €3.5 million per year.
Despite that progress, Milan are still assessing whether a deal can be completed this month or whether it will have to wait until the summer.
If a January transfer is possible, Milan are prepared to offer around €35 million including add ons. That figure would fall to roughly €30 million if Palace hold out until the end of the season.
For a winter move to happen, Crystal Palace would need to secure a suitable replacement first. Oliver Glasner is not expected to sign off on Mateta’s departure if the club are left with only a short term loan arrival such as Aston Villa forward Evann Guessand.
Milan also have business of their own to finalise. The club must sort out the exit of Christopher Nkunku to free up space in the squad. While an outright sale is preferred, La Gazzetta dello Sport reports that Milan could also consider a loan deal that includes a conditional obligation to buy.
Until those pieces fall into place, Mateta’s move remains close but not quite complete.