Report: Juventus target signing Jean-Philippe Mateta as Crystal Palace talks intensify

The Serie A side had an initial proposal rejected over the weekend. That offer was based on a short-term loan valued at two million euros, with an obligation to buy set at twenty-eight million euros, tied to sporting conditions. Crystal Palace turned it down, making it clear they valued the French striker closer to forty million euros.

Despite the refusal, Juventus remain firmly in the race. Italian reports indicate the club were ready to return to the negotiating table quickly, hoping to reach an agreement within the next forty-eight hours. Mateta has been identified as a priority target, with Juventus believing his physicality, work rate and scoring record made him a strong fit for their needs.

There was encouragement on the player side as well. Mateta was understood to be open to the move, with discussions already outlining a long-term contract should the two clubs reach an agreement. Juventus hoped that progress on personal terms would help accelerate talks with Palace.

Several Italian outlets have suggested a compromise could be reached at around thirty-five million euros, a figure Juventus viewed as a realistic middle ground. Palace, however, continued to push hard to maximise their return, aware of Mateta's importance and growing interest from abroad.

One potential obstacle remained the demands of the player's representatives. Reports claimed that agent commissions were a sticking point and could yet influence Juventus' final decision. The club had to decide whether to meet those requests or shift focus to alternative attacking options.

With time running short, Juventus pressed ahead, knowing any deal would need to be concluded swiftly if Mateta was to become the striker they hoped could strengthen their squad for the crucial months ahead.