Bayer Leverkusen have now approached Crystal Palace over a move to sign Jean-Philippe Mateta.
If a sale goes through, it could also benefit West Ham.
That is according to Alan Nixon.
So, what is the latest on Jean-Philippe Mateta at Crystal Palace? Let’s take a look…
Bayer Leverkusen make approach to sign Mateta
Well – according to Nixon – Crystal Palace have already rebuffed an enquiry from RB Leipzig regarding the Frenchman, although Xabi Alonso’s Bundesliga leaders have now made a move.
It is said that Crystal Palace want £20m to sell Mateta at this stage of the transfer window, and will also tell the German outfit that a replacement must be signed first.
Dougie Freedman is showing an interest in Marseille No.29 Iliman Ndiaye – although that move is complicated due to his involvement in the Africa Cup of Nations with Senegal.
As aforesaid, a deal involving Bayer Leverkusen and Mateta could benefit West Ham.
That is also according to Nixon, who claims that the east Londoners admire Bayer Leverkusen No.22 Victor Boniface.
The Bundesliga leaders have already signed Borja Iglesias to bolster their attack, so Mateta’s arrival would make a deal easier for West Ham to complete.
Crystal Palace should lower demands for Mateta
In our view, Mateta is not a £20m striker, and if Bayer Leverkusen show a willingness to spend around £15m on the Frenchman, we should shake hands on a deal.
As popular as the 26-year-old is amongst supporters at Selhurst Park, he has only scored 15 goals in 89 appearances for Crystal Palace, so if we can profit on the initial £9m it took to sign him from Mainz, a deal should certainly be explored.
However – as aforesaid – a replacement must be found first.
If it isn’t Ndiaye, Freedman may turn to PSG No.44 Hugo Ekitike, who Crystal Palace are said to still be interested in after coming close to a deal in the summer.
Be sure to keep an eye on this situation, as we expect further transfer developments at Selhurst Park before Thursday’s deadline.
