Liverpool Make Contact with Premier League Forward as Transfer Talks Advance | OneFootball

Liverpool Eye Jean-Philippe Mateta as Striker Market Heats Up

Tribute, Reflection and a Step Forward

Liverpool returned to the pitch with heavy hearts this weekend, following the tragic deaths of Diogo Jota and his brother André Silva in a car accident in Spain. A 3-1 victory over Preston North End in a friendly offered a sombre but unifying moment. Supporters from both clubs sang “You’ll Never Walk Alone” and observed a minute’s silence to honour Jota.

While football has rarely felt less important, the show must continue. With Arne Slot looking to shape his own Liverpool identity, attention has turned once again to transfer business. The match itself saw goals from Conor Bradley, Darwin Nuñez and Cody Gakpo. For Nuñez, it may be among his final appearances in a red shirt.

Photo: IMAGO

Napoli’s Pursuit of Nuñez Continues

Nuñez’s situation remains fluid. As Foot Mercato reported, Napoli are still pursuing the Uruguayan forward. Their last offer of around €43 million falls significantly short of Liverpool’s valuation, which stands near €70 million. The Reds are not actively pushing him out but would listen to serious proposals.

Behind closed doors, Liverpool are evaluating alternatives. Names like Alexander Isak, Hugo Ekitike and Ademola Lookman have already been linked, with the club clearly assessing versatile forwards who fit their physical and tactical requirements.

Jean-Philippe Mateta Enters the Conversation

Now, Jean-Philippe Mateta has emerged as a fresh and compelling name. According to Foot Mercato, “Liverpool are keen on Jean-Philippe Mateta (28 years old). There has been contact from the English champions regarding him, we were informed. Mateta and his agent also met with Liverpool representatives in Paris.”

The Crystal Palace striker is entering the final two years of his contract and had an impressive 2023/24 campaign, scoring 17 goals and assisting four more in 43 matches across all competitions. His physicality, hold-up play and Premier League experience give him an edge over less proven European options.

Mateta also impressed during the recent Olympics, netting five times in six matches. With Palace open to negotiation, the fee is estimated to range between €50 million and €60 million. That makes him significantly more affordable than players like Isak or Lookman, who would command closer to €100 million.

Photo: IMAGO

Rival Interest From Manchester United

Liverpool’s interest may need to become action quickly. Foot Mercato note that “Manchester United is a candidate for Mateta’s signature,” and the Red Devils’ striker rebuild continues in earnest. While United’s financial flexibility is uncertain, their presence in the conversation will raise the pressure on Liverpool to decide.

Given his contract length, top-flight pedigree and relatively attainable fee, Mateta fits a profile that suits both FSG’s economic logic and Arne Slot’s tactical framework. He offers a different dynamic to Gakpo when fit, and may complement rather than replace.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

Liverpool fans are likely to view Mateta as a smart, if slightly underwhelming, option. He’s proven, physical and has Premier League pedigree, but the lack of glamour surrounding his name could provoke scepticism in certain quarters. For a side aiming to challenge for top honours, signing a forward from mid-table Crystal Palace might not immediately excite.

However, there’s growing recognition that the club needs functional, fit and reliable attackers who can step up when others are unavailable. With Darwin Nuñez potentially heading to Serie A, there is logic in pursuing someone who doesn’t require months to adapt. Mateta’s 17 goals last season weren’t flukes, and his Olympic showing hints at a player in the form of his career.

Supporters will still wonder if a marquee signing is coming. But if the club adds Mateta alongside a more high-profile target or retains key forwards like Gakpo and Luis Díaz, the squad’s attacking depth could look strong again. With Manchester United lurking and Napoli circling, the club must act decisively if they truly want Mateta in red.