Crystal Palace are now front-runners to sign a “technically gifted” new striker, with Jean-Philippe-Mateta’s future at Selhurst Park up in the air.
Palace eyes new striker amid uncertainty
Palace have already had to deal with a major departure this month with Marc Guehy joining Manchester City, and with Mateta making it clear he wants to leave this month amid interest from Juventus, another key player could be on the way.
Of course, losing the Frenchman could be a big blow considering he is the Eagles’ top scorer with eight goals in the Premier League, but the striker only has one year left on his summer deal, so it would make financial sense to make money now.
Oliver Glasner will undoubtedly need a replacement if the 28-year-old leaves, but it has become clear that Mateta’s future is at stake, with Crystal Palace leading the race to sign Rennes star Mohamed Kader Meite.
A number of other Premier League clubs are in the race for the centre-forward, including Chelsea, Tottenham Hotspur, Aston Villa and Newcastle United, but Palace are the frontrunners and have already submitted their inquiries this month.
Saudi Professional League side Al Hilal are also interested, making an offer of £35m, but the 18-year-old is not convinced a move to the Middle East is the right next step.
‘Technically talented’ Meite could be an exciting successor to Mateta
Crystal Palace have already sold Guehi to Man City, so sanctioning Mateta’s departure this month would be a gamble, but there is probably little point in standing in the centre-forward’s way if he wants to leave, and the Rennes forward could be an exciting long-term replacement.
Crystal Palace star could leave alongside Jean-Philippe Mateta as his agent eyes a move for Palmeiras
The escape from Selhurst Park continues.
Journalist Bence Boxak waxed lyrical about the teenager: “He’s very good at holding onto the ball, using his body to protect it from defenders, then turning and moving forward or waiting to link up with his teammates.
“He’s starting to become a really solid finisher as well. He’s active in the box, has great movement to create space and is strong in the air.”
“Very technically gifted. He’s quick, has very good body feints and has good control.
Despite his age, the youngster has already started to make an impact for Rennes at the top level, scoring three goals and providing two assists in 16 appearances in Ligue 1 this season.
Signing Meite as a direct replacement for Mateta would be a risk given the Rennes ace’s inexperience, but the Frenchman is certainly showing signs that he could be an exciting long-term addition to the team.
