Crystal Palace plan to accept Jean-Philippe Mateta offer ahead of January
Crystal Palace are preparing to entertain offers for Jean-Philippe Mateta in the January transfer window, sources have told Football Insider.
The 29-year-old is out of contract at the end of the season, when he will be allowed to leave for free, but there is a growing feeling the Eagles could be tempted to cash in.
Jorgen Strand Larsen has proved a capable option to lead the line under Pierre Sage this season, while Eddie Nketiah remains a useful option, with the depth already in place.
As I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider's Transfer Insider podcast, Crystal Palace could now take their final opportunity to raise funds from Mateta's sale.
The France international is still highly-regarded at Selhurst Park and remains a key part of their plans when fit, has attracted high-profile interest from elsewhere.
Amid interest from clubs in the Premier League, top European leagues and the Saudi Pro League, the right offer could convince Crystal Palace to let Mateta leave.
Could Crystal Palace cash in on Jean-Philippe Mateta?
Football Insider revealed on 2 October that Mateta will leave Crystal Palace in 2027 and will not renew his contract at Selhurst Park as it reaches its final stages.
The only question mark surrounding the 29-year-old's future is now whether he will leave in January or upon the expiry of his contract at the end of the season.
There is now a growing feeling that Crystal Palace could be tempted to let Mateta leave in the mid-season window for the right offer, given the level of interest in his signature.
Speaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, I explained: "We do expect Mateta to leave Crystal Palace, whether that's in January or next summer when his contract expires.
"There'll be a number of clubs looking at Mateta, not just Manchester United, I think there's interest from other Premier League clubs as well.
"There are clubs in Europe and Saudi Pro League clubs who are also looking at the Frenchman in case he is allowed to leave Crystal Palace in the January transfer window.
"A lot will depend on what Palace want to do. Do they see January as their last chance to try and cash in a Mateta? That might be something they consider for the right price."
Which clubs could make moves for Mateta?
Interest in Mateta remains high despite his lack of impact so far this season, with his record leading the line for Crystal Palace having put multiple top clubs on alert.
A number of clubs in the Premier League and across Europe have been keeping a close eye on his situation, and the Eagles could open the door to offers in January.
Football Insider revealed on 3 October that Man United could make a move to sign Mateta, having been long-term admirers of his, as they aim to strengthen their squad.
Any move to Old Trafford will largely depend on the Red Devils' other options, but any injuries or departures could convince them to sign the France international.
Meanwhile, AC Milan remain long-term targets, and the emerging interest from the Saudi Pro League could prove convincing given the money on offer in the Middle East.