Crystal Palace have ‘concerns’ about two key players – ‘They’re looking at replacements’
Crystal Palace have concerns about their attacking options with both Jean-Philippe Mateta and Eddie Nketiah facing scrutiny at Selhurst Park.
That is according to former Man United and Blackburn chief scout Mick Brown, who remains very well-connected within the game, as he exclusively told Football Insider that the Eagles are already working to identify long-term additions up front.
Eddie Nketiah is the biggest concern for the Eagles, as he has failed to make an impact under Oliver Glasner and has struggled with multiple injury issues.
Meanwhile, Mateta’s contract talks with Palace have fallen through after disagreements over his wage demands, with his current deal set to expire in 2027.
As a result, Football Insider revealed Crystal Palace may be forced to sell Mateta in the summer as they aim to make a profit from his sale before it’s too late.
Crystal Palace eye Jean-Philippe Mateta and Eddie Nketiah replacements
Brown told Football Insider on 30 December that Crystal Palace want a top-class striker as they make long-term plans to refresh and add depth to their squad.
The former scout, who has a wealth of experience in top-level player recruitment after over a decade at Man United during their most successful period, insisted the Eagles have already identified options to pursue in the summer.
“The strikers are a concern for Crystal Palace,” he told Football Insider.
“Not just on the pitch because we know they’ve struggled for goals, but off it as well, because Mateta’s contract situation is going to become a problem.
“There’s so much uncertainty about him and whether he might leave, because it doesn’t look like he’s going to sign a new deal at the moment.
“Nketiah has never really got started at Palace and he keeps picking up these injuries, you get the feeling they’d be open to replacing him if the opportunity came along.
“Clubs are always looking to be proactive with their transfer plans, you have to look not just as positions which are problems now, but ones which might be in six months’ time.
“So they’re looking at strikers, younger ones for the future and potential replacements for now, in case they have to go out and replace Mateta and Nketiah.
“It’s not going to be easy by any means, every club in the Premier League wants to sign a top striker, but it’s something they’re working to put themselves in a good position for.”
Crystal Palace set for busy January window
While the addition of a new striker is likely to be prioritised in the summer rather than immediately, the Eagles are also keen to bolster their squad in January.
Brown told Football Insider on 4 January that Crystal Palace are planning for a mega transfer window with multiple incoming signings lined up.
Crystal Palace have completed the signing of Brennan Johnson from Tottenham already this month, but are showing no signs of slowing down in the market.
This comes amid concerns about their squad depth during an unprecedented winter schedule for the Eagles, with very few quality options on the bench.
That was highlighted as Crystal Palace lost 2-1 to Macclesfeild in a humiliating FA Cup third round defeat which saw their senior stars struggle to impress.
For more Crystal Palace and exclusive news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.