Juventus are again considering a move for Crystal Palace forward Jean-Philippe Mateta, according to reports in Italy. The Bianconeri’s season concluded recently, leaving several areas of the squad in need of reinforcement, including a consistent goalscorer. While Dusan Vlahovic remains at the club, Juventus are exploring alternative options, and Mateta’s name has resurfaced as a potential target.
Mateta, 28, recently played a key role in Crystal Palace’s victory in the Conference League final, scoring the winning goal against Rayo Vallecano. He is also set to join the French national team for the upcoming international fixtures. The forward was previously of interest to AC Milan in January, but a medical examination raised concerns, ultimately leading to the deal falling through. He subsequently missed games due to a knee injury, but returned to form in the spring, scoring six goals.
Despite being deemed unsuitable by Milan earlier this year, Mateta’s recent performances have made him an attractive option for Juventus. The club is evaluating Mateta both as a potential alternative to Vlahovic, should the Serbian striker not agree to a contract extension, and as a separate addition to the squad alongside Randal Kolo Muani. Vlahovic is reportedly exploring options with other top European clubs, and negotiations for a new contract with Juventus have stalled.
Crystal Palace are open to selling Mateta, whose current contract is set to expire in June 2027 and has not been renewed. The club is expected to seek a transfer fee of around €35 million. Mateta has consistently scored in double figures in the Premier League for the past three seasons, a record that Juventus officials find encouraging. The fact that France manager Didier Deschamps selected Mateta over Kolo Muani for the national team is also seen as a positive sign. A move for Mateta could gain traction in June, before the European Championship potentially increases his market value.
