Crystal Palace are ‘setting fire to money’ after Jean-Philippe Mateta ‘disaster’
Jean-Philippe Mateta came close to sealing a move away from Crystal Palace in the January transfer window.
Mateta was widely expected to leave Palace after informing the club of his desire to pursue a new challenge elsewhere.
AC Milan were closing on a deal to sign Mateta for £30million, but the move collapsed after medical examinations revealed he is suffering with a knee issue.
The France international wasn’t involved in Palace’s 1-0 victory over Brighton at the Amex Stadium on Sunday (8 February).
However, Oliver Glasner has played down the severity of Mateta’s injury after revealing he will not require surgery.
Why Jean-Philippe Mateta’s value is dropping at Crystal Palace
Former Manchester City financial adviser Stefan Borson exclusively told Football Insider the situation is a “disaster” for Palace as they now have an unhappy star who doesn’t want to play for them.
Meanwhile, Mateta has been told he must prove he wants to be at Selhurst Park before returning to the first-team picture this season.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, Borson said: “I think we’re now in damage limitation, aren’t we? Let’s say in the summer he was worth €40-45m (£35-39m) maybe. By January it’s down to what €30m (£26m). Now, he’s got his injury issue, he’s down to €25m (£22m).
“It’s a disaster for them really. The player doesn’t want to play for them. Everything’s wrong about the deal and the situation now. Sometimes it happens, but it’s terrible for Palace.
“They’re just losing money on this deal now, and obviously they want to get him out the door as quickly as possible. It can’t happen now until the summer. It’s one of those where it’s just setting fire to money, unfortunately.”
Man United interest revealed after Mateta latest
The question now is around where Mateta’s future will lie beyond this season, with his contract expiring at Selhurst Park in June 2027.
Football Insider revealed on 6 February Manchester United have held internal discussions over signing Mateta in recent months.
However, any interested parties will be keeping an eye on the 28-year-old’s fitness over the coming weeks following his knee injury.
Mateta has registered 10 goals and two assists in 34 appearances for Palace this season.
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