Crystal Palace have drawn a firm line in the sand after rejecting an approach from AC Milan for striker Jean-Philippe Mateta, underlining their reluctance to weaken an already stretched squad midway through the season.
Despite strong interest from the Italian giants and reports that the player has agreed personal terms with the Serie A club, Palace have opted to stand their ground as the January window edges toward its conclusion.
The refusal highlights Palace’s determination to retain key personnel following a turbulent period that has seen significant upheaval both on and off the pitch.
With defensive leader Marc Guehi already departing earlier in the window and the club enduring difficult cup exits, the hierarchy is wary of sanctioning another high-profile departure without a suitable replacement in place.
Mateta’s situation, however, remains delicate. The 28-year-old is understood to be open to a new challenge and is keen on the prospect of moving to San Siro, where AC Milan are seeking to bolster their attacking options for the second half of the campaign.
While an agreement on personal terms signals the striker’s willingness to make the switch, Palace’s rejection has stalled progress for now.
French outlet Foot Mercato reports that Milan’s initial offer fell short of Palace’s valuation, prompting the Premier League side to shut down talks at this stage.
Palace are believed to be holding out for a significantly improved proposal, conscious not only of Mateta’s importance to the team but also of the limited time available to source an adequate replacement should a deal be struck.
Competition for Mateta’s signature further complicates the picture. Juventus continue to monitor the situation closely, while Aston Villa have also been credited with interest, viewing the French forward as a potential solution to their own attacking needs.
The growing list of suitors strengthens Palace’s negotiating position, even as it increases the pressure surrounding the player’s future.
For now, Mateta remains a Palace player, and the club’s stance suggests they are prepared to resist late-window advances unless their demands are met.
