Juventus are targeting a loan move for Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta, with a mandatory buy clause included. The Italian club has held positive talks with the player’s camp over personal terms.
They now wait for feedback from Palace. The decision could come soon after the club sorts out the immediate future of manager Oliver Glasner, who announced his departure at the season’s end.
Mateta has been a key player for Palace since joining on loan from Mainz in 2021. The deal turned permanent the next year. The 28-year-old French forward scored 19 goals in the Premier League last season.
He added more in cups. His physical style and finishing helped Palace stay mid-table. This year he has 10 goals already. Fans rate him highly for hold-up play and runs behind defences.
Juventus needs more options up front. Dusan Vlahovic leads the line but carries the load alone at times. Injuries hit Arkadiusz Milik and others. The club sits top of Serie A under Thiago Motta.
They chase the title and progress in Europe. A striker like Mateta adds depth without a big upfront cost. The loan with a buy clause fits their plan. It lets them test him before committing fully.
Palace face a choice. Mateta’s contract runs to 2026. Selling now brings funds. But losing him mid-season hurts the attack. Eberechi Eze and others create, but goals could dry up.
Glasner’s exit adds uncertainty. The Austrian built the team around quick transitions. A new manager might want different players. Palace sits 13th, with games in hand. They aim to climb before deciding.
The proposed deal looks like a loan until summer. Then a mandatory purchase for around €20-25 million, based on reports. Mateta earns well at Palace. Juventus can match that. His camp likes the move to a big club. Playing in the Champions League appeals. France call-ups could follow with regular minutes.
Fans at Palace worry about replacement. Odsonne Edouard left last year. Youngsters wait, but none match Mateta’s output yet. Selling captain Marc Guehi to Manchester City already weakens the squad. More exits could drop them toward trouble.
Juventus moved quickly after scouting. Mateta’s strength suits Italian football. He wins duels and links play. Motta likes forwards who press high. Mateta fits that.
No official bids yet. Talks stay private. Palace wants to know Glasner’s successor first. Names like Graham Potter circulate. Stability matters before big sales.
Mateta stays focused. He scored in recent games. Palace play soon. He starts as usual. If the move happens, the January 31 deadline looms. This interest shows Mateta’s rise. From the Mainz bench to Premier League star. Juventus’ call flatters him. But Palace hold the cards.
Fans debate online. Some say sell for cash to rebuild. Others want him to stay and fight. The window closes soon. Decision time nears. Juventus watch closely. A yes from Palace opens the door. Mateta could join in days. Serie A awaits.
Palace chairman Steve Parish handles talks. He rebuilt after past sales. Funds from Guehi help. Mateta’s fee adds more. The story develops. Watch for updates as the deadline approaches. Mateta’s future hangs on Palace’s choice.
