Aston Villa are gearing up for what should be a memorable 2024-25 campaign by putting together a busy and proactive summer transfer window. The likes of Amadou Onana, Ian Maatsen, and Enzo Barrenechea solidify their midfield and defense while Samuel Iling-Junior and Jaden Philogene offer numbers on the left wing.
Cameron Archer arrived on a free but he is unlikely to challenge Ollie Watkins for a starting role. With Jhon Duran expected to leave the club this summer, another player who can do a job upfront is the need of the hour.
According to Evening Standard, Aston Villa have initiated surprise talks with Crystal Palace to sign striker Jean-Philippe Mateta. Mateta, who has experience with clubs like Lyon, Le Havre, and Mainz, arrived in the Premier League in January 2021. Crystal Palace initially secured him on a loan deal for €3 million, and then made it permanent in January 2022 for an additional €15 million.
Mateta’s stock rose significantly last season as he scored an impressive 19 goals in 39 appearances across all competitions. His sensational end to the campaign, with 13 goals in his final 13 Premier League matches, has caught the attention of several top clubs. Msteta continues to impress at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games where he has netted once in three matches.
The 27-year-old’s form has linked him with a potential big-money move to Paris Saint-Germain, who are revamping their attack following Kylian Mbappe’s move to Real Madrid. However, PSG have since shifted their focus to other targets, allowing Aston Villa the opportunity to make their move.
Palace were open to offers for Mateta during the January transfer window before his stunning form, but their stance has changed since. The Eagles have rebuffed Villa’s approach, wanting him to continue shining under manager Oliver Glasner during the 2024-25 campaign. In addition to Villa, Juventus, Atletico Madrid, and Torino have also expressed interest in Mateta.
The striker’s current contract at Selhurst Park runs until June 2026, Palace have yet to convince him of a new deal, and his head could be turned by interest from other clubs. Aston Villa, in particular, have the financial power to launch a major bid for Mateta, potentially making Palace reconsider their stance.
Villa’s management, led by Unai Emery and sporting director Monchi, are seeking a new striker to provide competition and cover for Watkins, amid uncertainty over Duran’s future at the club. Whether that person will be Mateta remains to be seen.
