Crystal Palace reject £30m Atalanta bid for Jean-Philippe Mateta | OneFootball

Crystal Palace have turned down a bid worth just over £30 million from Serie A side Atalanta for in-form striker Jean-Philippe Mateta (the BBC).

The 28-year-old Palace forward enjoyed a remarkable 2024/25 season, scoring 17 goals and providing four assists in 46 appearances across all competitions.

His contributions were pivotal as Palace claimed the FA Cup.

Mateta delivered a standout semi-final performance, registering an assist, two chances (created), completing all his dribbles, and dominating duels.

Under Palace boss Oliver Glasner, Mateta has become one of the Premier League’s most consistent goal threats.

Since the Austrian manager’s arrival in February 2024, only Alexander Isak, Erling Haaland, and Mohamed Salah have scored more league goals than Mateta, per FotMob.

With two years remaining on his current £50,000 per week contract, Palace are under no immediate pressure to sell.

However, the rejection of Atalanta’s approach signals the South London club’s desire to hold onto their top scorer unless a significantly higher bid arrives.

Per the report, whether the Eagles would entertain a larger offer remains to be seen.

However, with elite clubs across Europe scouring the market for strikers, interest in Mateta is expected to intensify.

Statistically, Mateta’s underlying metrics back up the interest in the Frenchman. He ranks eighth in the Premier League for Expected Goals (xG) and ninth for total goals.

His xG per 90 minutes sits at an impressive 0.45 from a modest average of 2.28 shots per game, highlighting his efficiency in front of goal.

The former Mainz 05 striker has amassed 46 goals and 11 assists in Crystal Palace colours, and his recent form has made him indispensable to Glasner.

With Atalanta’s offer now rejected, the onus is on potential suitors to come back with a bid that reflects Mateta’s Premier League pedigree.

They could turn to Fulham ace Rodrigo Muniz. He is their alternative target, but they could face competition from Newcastle United and Leeds United.