Crystal Palace’s January transfer strategy has reached a decisive phase. The Eagles are reportedly waiting to finalize the departure of Jean-Philippe Mateta to AC Milan before reigniting their £50 million pursuit of Wolverhampton Wanderers striker Jørgen Strand Larsen.
According to TEAMtalk, Mateta has made his intentions clear: he wants to leave Selhurst Park. Despite interest from Nottingham Forest, who were willing to meet his £150,000-per-week wage demands, the Frenchman appears destined for Italy.
The Milan Connection
Transfer experts Fabrizio Romano and Ben Jacobs report that Mateta has already agreed on personal terms with AC Milan. The Rossoneri are now working against the clock to strike a deal with Palace.
- The Conflict: Milan prefers a loan deal with an obligation to buy, while Crystal Palace is holding out for an immediate £40 million permanent sale.
- The Outlook: Milan has guaranteed funds for a permanent move in the summer, which keeps the negotiations “alive and warm” as the deadline approaches.
Strand Larsen: The Chosen Successor
Crystal Palace’s primary target to replace Mateta remains Wolves’ Jørgen Strand Larsen. While talks recently cooled, the interest is far from over.
- The Price Tag: Wolves are demanding £45 million fixed plus £5 million in add-ons.
- Competition: Leeds United are also monitoring the Norwegian striker, but Wolves have informed all suitors that they will not entertain offers below their valuation during this window.
Strategic Stalemate
From the Palace hierarchy’s point of view, the sale of Mateta is the “key” that unlocks the budget for Strand Larsen. Until the French striker’s move to the San Siro is formalized, the club is hesitant to submit a formal bid to Wolves.
With 18 months left on his contract, Mateta’s departure seems inevitable, but Selhurst Park officials are determined to maximize the fee to ensure they have the financial muscle to secure their new number nine.
James Horan is a football writer focused on the Premier League transfer market, covering confirmed signings, transfer rumors, and club strategies during the transfer windows.
