The operation aimed at transferring Jean-Philippe Mateta to AC Milan today seems seriously compromised. While the Rossoneri had reached an agreement based on 35 million euros to secure the immediate services of the French striker from Crystal Palace, persistent doubts about his physical condition, particularly at the knee level, put the entire transaction on hold. The London club, which had chosen not to play Mateta in order to preserve the possibility of a last minute departure, has also formalized the arrival of Jorgen Strand Larsen from Wolverhampton, a recruitment supposed to facilitate the exit of the French striker. This double development complicates the situation for Milan, who must now reassess the medical risk before concluding the operation.
To anticipate the transfer and allow Massimiliano Allegri to quickly have his new striker at his disposal, Milan had organized medical examinations directly in London, preparatory to Mateta’s trip to Italy and the signing of a contract until June 2030, with a net salary of 3.5 million euros per season plus bonuses. However, information from the English press reveals that the Rossoneri have expressed certain reservations regarding the player’s physical conditions. Although Mateta has participated in all 23 Premier League games this season with Crystal Palace, he has recently been experiencing increased discomfort in his knee, to the point where the idea of surgery to permanently correct the problem has been mooted. These elements slowed down the conclusion of a transfer which nevertheless seemed imminent.
Time is running out for all 3 parties
Mateta’s sporting and medical assessment does not present any major reasons for concern. His injury history remains relatively light, with the only serious concern dating from 2019, when he played for Mainz in Germany. In terms of performances, the Frenchman has played 34 matches this season in all competitions, scoring 10 goals and notably participating in the Community Shield final against Manchester City, seven Conference League matches and three English League Cup matches. Despite this significant volume of play, Milan remains cautious and wants to ensure that the striker can withstand the physical load of a demanding championship like Serie A before finalizing his recruitment.
In the coming hours, a final medical check-up will determine the outcome of this delicate operation. According to La Gazzetta dello Sportan AC Milan doctor will travel to Paris to carry out additional examinations on Mateta in order to issue a definitive opinion. If this proves positive, the player can immediately join Milan and sign his contract. Otherwise, the transfer could be canceled on the gong before Monday evening. On the Crystal Palace side, management remains optimistic for the moment and says they are not informed of any particular complications, expecting the agreement to materialize soon. This uncertainty adds a new twist to a transfer window saga which, after seeming resolved, suddenly becomes complicated.
