Nottingham Forest Eye Crystal Palace’s Jean-Philippe Mateta Amidst Growing Interest

Nottingham Forest Eye Crystal Palace’s Jean-Philippe Mateta Amidst Growing Interest

Nottingham Forest have reportedly made an approach to Crystal Palace for striker Jean-Philippe Mateta, signaling their intent to bolster their attacking options ahead of the 2025/26 Premier League season. The French forward has been in impressive form, attracting attention from several top-flight clubs.

Mateta’s Rise to Prominence

Since joining Crystal Palace in 2021, Mateta has gradually established himself as a key figure in the Eagles’ attack. The 27-year-old’s performances have been particularly notable in the 2024/25 season, where he netted 16 Premier League goals, making him the club’s top scorer and earning him the Player of the Season award. His contributions were pivotal in Palace’s FA Cup triumph, where he assisted in the decisive goal during the final against Manchester City .en.wikipedia.org

Forest’s Interest and Strategic Fit

With veteran striker Chris Wood leading Forest’s attack, the club is looking to the future. At 33, Wood’s long-term role is uncertain, prompting Forest to explore younger alternatives. Mateta’s style of play—characterized by his physical presence, aerial ability, and clinical finishing—aligns well with Forest’s tactical setup. Notably, Mateta’s metrics this season closely mirror those of Wood, suggesting he could seamlessly integrate into Forest’s system .

Market Value and Competition

Crystal Palace have reportedly set Mateta’s asking price at £50 million, a valuation that has drawn interest from several Premier League clubs, including Manchester United, Chelsea, and Newcastle United . Despite the competition, Forest’s proactive approach indicates a serious intent to secure the striker’s services.nottinghamforest.news

Conclusion

As the summer transfer window approaches, Nottingham Forest’s pursuit of Jean-Philippe Mateta underscores their commitment to strengthening their squad for the upcoming season. With his proven track record and compatibility with Forest’s playing style, Mateta represents a promising addition to the club’s attacking options.