Aston Villa targeting Jean-Philippe Mateta | OneFootball

Aston Villa are exploring options to strengthen their forward line, with Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta (28) emerging as a player of interest as Unai Emery looks to reshape his attacking department, according to reports from Sky Sports.

Villa’s pursuit comes in the wake of Donyell Malen’s recent move to Roma, a departure that has left Emery keen to add physicality and presence in the final third. Mateta, who has enjoyed a productive spell at Selhurst Park, fits that profile and is understood to be among several names under consideration at Villa Park.

Any move could have implications at both ends. Crystal Palace are said to be weighing up renewed interest in Villa forward Evann Guessand, whom they admired last summer before his £28m switch to the Midlands. The 23-year-old has yet to fully establish himself in Emery’s side, and Palace view him as a long-term option should Mateta be allowed to leave.

Villa’s ambitions in the market extend beyond Selhurst Park. Sky Sports News report that the club are also stepping up their interest in Tammy Abraham, currently on loan at Besiktas from Roma. The England international’s future remains uncertain, but his experience and proven Premier League pedigree make him an attractive proposition.

With the January window entering a decisive phase, Villa’s activity reflects both opportunity and intent. Emery is keen to ensure his side remain competitive on multiple fronts, and securing the right attacking reinforcement could prove pivotal to their second half of the season.

GFN | Finn Entwistle