Milan reach verbal agreement with Crystal Palace for Jean-Philippe Mateta | OneFootball

Milan have reportedly reached a verbal agreement with Crystal Palace for Jean-Philippe Mateta, although it remains to be seen whether the player can arrive in this transfer window.

As per Sacha Tavolieri, an agreement in principle was agreed last night between the two clubs. However, considering Christopher Nkunku’s potential departure and Palace’s search for a replacement up front, it’s uncertain whether this deal can be completed immediately or will have to wait until the summer.

The imposing Frenchman Mateta has scored eight goals in 23 Premier League outings so far this season, and has been a real coup since 2023/24’s run of form saw him net 19 goals in 39 all-competition games, before 2024/25’s 17 in 46 helped Palace win their first-ever trophy with the FA Cup.

With Jorgen Strand Larsen’s potential move to South London and Juventus’ push for Randal Kolo Muani, Mateta’s move to Milan just might happen in this transfer window’s final days.

Previously, it was clear that Mateta wanted to leave Palace after informing the club’s hierarchy. Nottingham Forest have been another club interested in the 28-year-old and are set to return after failing with an initial £35m offer.

Mateta is understood to want to play Champions League football, but a move to the City Ground is seen as a lucrative option. Milan may have to act quickly following their verbal agreement, as sources indicate that Forest intend to accelerate their interest.

GIFN | Max Bradfield