Credit: Manh Tung - Breaking Media

Harri Burton

Fri 1 May 2026 18:00, UK

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Newcastle United could let their desperation get the better of them, as former target Jean-Philippe Mateta stars for Crystal Palace once again.

Nick Woltemade and Yoane Wissa have both failed to hold down the centre-forward spot at St James’ Park, leaving Eddie Howe with very few options through the middle.

In recent weeks, William Osula has broken into the lineup, especially with Anthony Gordon unavailable due to a reported injury. Still, it has not helped in the slightest, with the Magpies on a five-game losing streak.

Newcastle’s transfer chiefs are likely to be working overtime during the summer transfer window, and Mateta is likely to be one of the priority targets for the 2026-27 campaign.

Jean-Philippe Mateta could make Newcastle United switch

Palace’s No.14 has had injury problems throughout the 2025-26 campaign, only rubbing salt into the wounds at Selhurst Park after the striker pushed for a move away during the previous two windows.

However, his assist for Ismaila Sarr’s first-minute opener against Shakhtar Donetsk on Thursday, 30 April, took his tally to 13 goals and three assists for the season. Not bad for a wantaway, injury-stricken striker.

Mick Brown told Football Insider that Newcastle are plotting a move for Mateta, having previously been interested in his services, but it could come at quite a cost this summer.

His valuation stands around the £35million-£40million mark, but even last summer, the Eagles were holding out for a little more. Given his exploits in recent weeks, that fee could rise even higher.

Crystal Palace star likely to replace Yoane Wissa already

As already discussed, neither of Newcastle’s big-money strikers has managed to hit the ground running at St James’ Park this season, but Wissa has been by far the most frustrating.

Football Insider understands that Newcastle could already sell Wissa, with Howe having low confidence in the former Brentford man, and it would make total sense to see the club move him on this summer.

While Mateta has been at the centre of controversy over the last 12 months, he is a seriously talented centre-forward, one who would be an incredible addition to Howe’s current squad.

The Magpies might have to shell out for his signature, though. That might be a little difficult after their most recent spending spree, but if they can find the money, it’s a deal worth doing for next season.