Jean-Philippe Mateta’s proposed deadline-day transfer from Crystal Palace to AC Milan has collapsed due to medical concerns, a source told AFP on Monday, confirming reports in Italian media.
The French striker was omitted from Palace’s squad for Sunday’s Premier League draw with Nottingham Forest, with the expectation that a move to Milan would be completed.
According to the source, AC Milan requested further medical tests on Mateta’s knee but did not receive the assurances required to finalise the transfer.
It was added that Mateta had been expected to join the Italian giants at the end of the season, before a decision was made to bring the move forward by six months.
“The move has now been abandoned,” the source said.
Mateta has scored 56 goals for Crystal Palace since initially joining the club on loan from 1. FSV Mainz 05 in January 2021. He was also a key figure in Palace’s FA Cup triumph last season.
Palace have endured a turbulent period in recent weeks, with manager Oliver Glasner announcing he will leave Selhurst Park at the end of the campaign and defender Marc Guehi departing for Manchester City. The Eagles are currently on a 12-game winless run across all competitions.
The 28-year-old Mateta has scored 10 goals this season but has found the net just once in his last 12 appearances.
Milan had hoped to strengthen their attacking options as they look to close the gap on city rivals Inter Milan, who hold an eight-point lead at the top of Serie A.
Italian reports now suggest Juventus FC could make a late attempt to sign Mateta before the transfer window closes later on Monday.
