DEAL IMMINENT”- Crystal Palace now frontrunners to sign “technically gifted” £35m Mateta heir

Crystal Palace have emerged as the leading contenders to land a new “technically gifted” striker as uncertainty continues to surround Jean-Philippe Mateta’s future at Selhurst Park.

Palace step up striker search amid Mateta doubts

The Eagles have already endured one significant exit this month, with Marc Guéhi completing a move to Manchester City, and another high-profile departure could soon follow. Mateta has made his desire to leave clear during the current window, with Juventus among the clubs showing strong interest in the French forward.

Losing Mateta would be a notable setback for Palace, given he is currently their top Premier League goalscorer with eight goals. However, from a financial perspective, allowing him to move on now could be a sensible decision, as he will enter the final year of his contract in the summer.

With Mateta’s situation unresolved, Oliver Glasner is already exploring replacement options. Reports suggest Palace are now at the front of the queue for Rennes youngster Mohamed Kader Meïté, with the club having already made an enquiry as they prepare for a possible reshuffle in attack.

Strong competition for Meïté’s signature

Crystal Palace are not alone in their pursuit of the highly rated centre-forward. Several Premier League rivals — including Chelsea, Tottenham Hotspur, Aston Villa and Newcastle United — are all monitoring the 18-year-old’s situation closely.

Interest has also arrived from outside Europe, with Saudi Pro League giants Al-Hilal reportedly submitting a £35 million offer. However, Meïté is believed to be unconvinced that a move to the Middle East would be the right step at this stage of his career.

Why Meïté could be Mateta’s long-term successor

Allowing Mateta to depart so soon after Guéhi’s exit would be a bold move, but Palace may see little value in keeping an unsettled player. In Meïté, they would be investing in a striker widely tipped for a big future.

Journalist Bence Bocsak has been full of praise for the Rennes prospect, highlighting his ability to hold up play, use his physicality effectively and bring teammates into the game.

The teenager is also developing into a reliable finisher, with sharp movement in the box, aerial strength and an increasing goal threat.

Bocsak also described Meïté as “very technically gifted,” noting his quick feet, convincing body feints and excellent close control — attributes that make him a difficult opponent for defenders.

Despite his tender age, Meïté has already begun to make his mark at senior level for Rennes, registering three goals and two assists in 16 Ligue 1 appearances this season.

While replacing an established Premier League striker like Mateta with a relatively inexperienced teenager would carry obvious risks, Meïté’s performances suggest he could develop into an exciting long-term asset for Crystal Palace if the move goes through.