Juventus plot January swoop for Crystal Palace star Jean-Philippe Mateta as Spalletti gives green light | OneFootball

Juventus have enquired into the prospect of signing Jean-Philippe Mateta from Crystal Palace this month.

The Italian side are open to a deal to sign Mateta, who has entered the final 18 months of his contract at Selhurst Park. Mateta has so far turned down a new deal atCrystal Palace, as the forward assesses his options.

Sky Sports are reporting that Juventus have now expressed interest. Head coach Luciano Spalletti has reportedly given the 'green light' to the club's recruitment team to pursue the France international.

Spalletti wants to sign a centre-forward with Dusan Vlahovic injured and out of contract in the summer. Lois Openda and Jonathan David have also failed to make the desired impact since joining in last summer's window, combining for just fourSerie A goals.

Mateta is now on the Bianconeri's radar, amid the player's interest in exploring a move. The 28-year-old has recovered from a modest start atCrystal Palace to emerge as one of the Premier League's most reliable forwards.

His performances earned Mateta a France debut in October and he has scored twice in three appearances at international level.

Palace are reluctant to lose their leading scorer this month, as the Eagles continue to compete for European football and Europa Conference League success.

Oliver Glasner's side are closing in on a deal to sign 19-year-old Sidiki Cherif from Angers, though that deal will not impact the club's stance on Mateta.

Palace remain relaxed about Mateta's situation and there is an expectation the club will be able to demand a significant fee in the summer. The South Londoners are expected to cash in on the Frenchman if he does not sign a new deal, in a bid to avoid a repeat of Marc Guehi's situation.

After a £35m move to Liverpool collapsed in the summer, Guehi's deal expires in the summer and he is set to leave as a free agent.