Juventus attempt to hijack Guessand deal as AC Milan lead Mateta race | OneFootball

According to Telegraph, Juventus are making a late move to hijack Crystal Palace’s deal for Evann Guessand from Aston Villa, while AC Milan have tabled a fresh offer for Jean-Philippe Mateta.

Palace would rather sell Mateta abroad than to Nottingham Forest, whose £35m bid was rejected. They want £40m, a sum Milan are prepared to top.

Milan had an initial offer turned down last week but have improved it and are seen as favourites if Palace sanction a sale. Mateta is willing to join Forest, yet Milan could close the deal if they move nearer the valuation.

Palace still want to keep the 28-year-old France international despite his wish to leave this month and would need a replacement. That may not be Jorgen Strand Larsen, with a proposed move from Wolverhampton Wanderers now in doubt after the Guessand development.

There are concerns over a proposed £45m fee, plus £5m in add-ons, that Palace have considered for the forward, who also interests Leeds United. A valuation of no more than £40m is viewed as realistic for the 25-year-old Norwegian international.

Guessand, a 24-year-old Ivory Coast international, has agreed a loan to Palace until the end of the season with an option to buy. He joined Villa from Nice last summer for £22m and, despite limited minutes, could be used as a No nine or just off the striker. It is thought the move is advanced enough to fend off Juventus, and Guessand wants to stay in the Premier League.

Source: Telegraph