Tottenham Hotspur has reportedly overtaken Juventus in the race to sign Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta, with the Frenchman officially submitting a transfer request to force a move this January.
Despite Juventus being the long-term favorites to land the 28-year-old, the Italian giants saw their latest offer a loan with an obligation to buy for €33 million (£28.8m) flatly rejected by Crystal Palace. This opening has allowed Tottenham and manager Thomas Frank to move into pole position.
Pressure on Thomas Frank
The move comes at a crucial time for Spurs. Despite a massive 2-0 Champions League win over Borussia Dortmund on Tuesday night, Thomas Frank remains under intense scrutiny due to the club’s poor Premier League form, where they currently sit in a disappointing 14th place.
The board has identified the lack of clinical finishing as a primary issue. While Dominic Solanke provided relief in the European clash, the recruitment of Mateta is seen as the “missing piece” to salvage the domestic season and secure a top-four finish.
Crystal Palace’s Unravelling Season
At Selhurst Park, the situation is increasingly desperate. Following the sale of captain Marc Guéhi to Manchester City and the announcement that manager Oliver Glasner will depart in the summer, Mateta’s transfer request is another blow.
- Palace Asking Price: €40 million (£35 million) for a permanent transfer.
- Contract Status: Contracted until June 2027, but unwilling to renew under current terms.
- Season Stats: Mateta has scored 8 goals in 22 Premier League games this season, making him Palace’s only reliable source of goals.
The Competition: Aston Villa and Juventus
While Tottenham has held positive talks with Mateta’s representatives, they aren’t alone. Aston Villa is also monitoring the situation closely, especially after selling Donyell Malen to Roma. However, Mateta’s desire to consistently play in the Champions League where Spurs are currently thriving, sitting 4th in the overall table gives the North London side a decisive edge.
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.
