Serie A giants making further checks around Palace striker | OneFootball

Mateta medical advances Milan move

Jean Philippe Mateta’s likely departure from Crystal Palace edged closer as he underwent further medical tests in London, with AC Milan continuing work on a proposed deal. As reported by The Athletic, Palace and Milan have already “agreed a deal worth more than €30million (£26m; $35.6m)” for the striker, a figure that reflects both form and timing.

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Mateta’s absence from Palace’s squad against Nottingham Forest on Sunday was telling. Head coach Oliver Glasner had explained on Friday that the forward was “not in the right place to play”, language that felt more emotional than tactical. It suggested a player already drifting beyond Selhurst Park.

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Squad planning shapes Palace stance

The proposed sale does not exist in isolation. Palace have already moved in the market, with an offer “in the region of £48m accepted by Wolverhampton Wanderers for striker Jorgen Strand Larsen”. That sequence matters. Securing a replacement attacking option “had been considered as necessary if Mateta was to depart”, underlining that this is a managed transition rather than a forced sale.

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At 28, Mateta leaves having delivered key moments, yet Palace appear prepared to reset. Milan’s interest provides a clean break, while Palace’s recruitment points towards continuity rather than disruption.

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ForPalace fans, this report lands with mixed emotions. There is appreciation for what Mateta has given, especially during periods when Palace needed a focal point and he delivered physical presence and goals. Seeing him head towards Milan feels like recognition of that contribution.

At the same time, there is a sense of pragmatism. The language from Glasner about Mateta being “not in the right place to play” suggests a relationship reaching its natural end. Fans value honesty, and this feels honest. If the club have already lined up a replacement and acted decisively, that inspires confidence.

Supporters will also note the numbers. More than €30m for a 28 year old striker is solid business, particularly if reinvested smartly. Palace fans have grown used to careful squad building rather than sentimental clinging. The hope now is that the next forward fits Glasner’s ideas from day one. If that happens, Mateta’s exit will be remembered not as a loss, but as a necessary step in Palace’s evolution.