Jean-Philippe Mateta is now set to be blocked from leaving Crystal Palace in January, despite wanting an exit.
That is according to The Athletic.
So, what is the latest on Jean-Philippe Mateta at Crystal Palace? Let’s take a look…
Mateta now set to stay at Crystal Palace
Well, it was The Athletic who claimed in December that the Frenchman wants out of Selhurst Park – as he seeks regular starts elsewhere.
Now – according to a fresh update from The Athletic – Mateta is still keen on a departure, although any exit is set to be blocked by Crystal Palace, even if a new striker is signed.
It is said that the 26-year-old’s recent performances are likely to keep him in south London, after goals against Manchester City and Liverpool changed his situation.
Mateta has been handed a rare string of starts following an injury to Odsonne Edouard, and the Crystal Palace No.14 has taken his chance with both hands.
Aside from scoring against both Liverpool and Manchester City, the Sevran-born striker impressed once again in the 2-1 defeat to Chelsea, and also delivered a fantastic performance in Saturday’s 3-1 win over Brentford.
Crystal Palace right to keep Mateta
In our view, this is the right decision – even if it risks upsetting Mateta.
The £8m man is a vastly different striker to Edouard, and suits Roy Hodgson when Crystal Palace find themselves up against more physical opposition.
Of course, a similarly physical striker could be signed to replace Mateta, although the Premier League is a very tough division, and there are no guarantees that any new signing will be able to replicate the Frenchman’s recent performance level immediately.
It could take months for a new striker to settle, and with Crystal Palace sat just six points above the relegation zone – Luton also have a game in hand – the Eagles do not have any time to waste.
