Crystal Palace have had a difficult few weeks, and things could be about to get worse if they lose some of their most important players. Eberechi Eze has been strongly linked with a move to Arsenal, while star striker Jean-Philippe Mateta could also depart.
Mateta, who has scored 36 goals in his last two seasons with Crystal Palace, has attracted significant interest in recent weeks. Liverpool have been linked, but given that they are closing in on a deal for countryman Hugo Ekitike, a more likely more for him would be AC Milan, who have recently entered the race.
Crystal Palace set £26m asking price for Jean-Philippe Mateta
Jean-Philippe Mateta applauds the fans after scoring against Arsenal (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)
According to L’Equipe (via Football Italia), Mateta would be interested in leaving Crystal Palace this summer in order to play for a bigger club, which would increase his chances of being selected for France at the 2026 World Cup. But a deal will not be done unless the Londoners receive a fee in the region of €30m (£26m).
Milan may find it difficult to reach £26m, which would be good news for Crystal Palace in their efforts to retain the services of Mateta, whom they want to continue being a star player ahead of their UEFA Conference League exploits next season.
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There is no reason for Crystal Palace to consider selling Mateta. He’s clearly a very valuable player for Oliver Glasner, and unless he pushes very hard to leave (which would be unlikely), it would be a surprise for him to depart.
Crystal Palace will be focusing on signing players, although they will have to careful monitor the situations with Mateta and Eze. Fans would desperately love both players to stay, and while there is a chance that happens, at least one of them could leave Selhurst Park.
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