Crystal Palace have reportedly turned down a €30 million proposal from Juventus for Jean-Philippe Mateta that was structured as a loan with conditions attached.
Calciomercato claims the Serie A club attempted to land the striker through an initial loan deal that included a conditional obligation to buy, but Palace are unwilling to entertain that format. The Premier League side are said to be firm on selling only under their own terms.
Palace are currently facing a period of uncertainty as key decisions threaten to disrupt the progress made over the past two seasons. The sale of Eberechi Eze in the summer, combined with the earlier possibility of losing Marc Guehi, prompted outspoken frustration from manager Oliver Glasner. Guehi has now completed a move to Manchester City, and Glasner has since confirmed his intention to leave Selhurst Park at the end of the campaign.
That situation has heightened fears that another core player could depart, with Mateta now considering the next stage of his career. The French striker has attracted strong interest, and while several clubs are monitoring his situation, Juventus are believed to be leading the race.
The Italian giants are keen to add firepower after struggling for consistency up front. Summer signings Jonathan David and Lois Openda have yet to make the desired impact, while Dusan Vlahovic appears increasingly likely to leave. As a result, securing a reliable goalscorer has become a priority.
Reports suggest Juventus already have a broad agreement in place with Mateta over personal terms, with the player open to a move. However, negotiations between the two clubs remain unresolved after Palace rejected the initial approach.
Juventus see Mateta as a solution
Juventus’ proposal reportedly included a €2 million loan fee, with a further €28 million payable through an obligation to buy if the club qualified for either the Champions League or Europa League next season. Palace declined the offer, making it clear they want a straight permanent sale or, at the very least, an unconditional obligation.
Despite the setback, Juventus are expected to reopen discussions in an attempt to find common ground. With the January transfer window nearing its close, Mateta’s future at Crystal Palace remains uncertain.