Mateta Transfer to AC Milan Collapses Over Medical Concerns

Jean-Philippe Mateta’s failed AC Milan transfer has taken center stage in the January window after the Crystal Palace striker’s move was derailed by a medical issue that left the Italian giants wary of proceeding with the £30 million deal.

Mateta Transfer to AC Milan: Hopes Dashed by Medical Results

Mateta transfer to AC Milan was expected to reinvigorate the French forward’s career after he expressed a desire to leave Crystal Palace. The striker, 28, had grown increasingly dissatisfied at Selhurst Park, with his omission from the squad for the recent 1-1 draw against Nottingham Forest fueling speculation about his exit. Palace manager Oliver Glasner clarified that Mateta was not mentally prepared to play, emphasizing the need to protect both team and player interests.

As the window closed, it appeared Mateta transfer to AC Milan was imminent, with both clubs reaching an agreement and Mateta traveling to Italy for his medical. However, the process unraveled quickly when Milan’s medical team flagged concerns stemming from a history of right knee problems.

Medical Red Flags Deter AC Milan

According to BBC Sport, Crystal Palace had informed AC Milan about Mateta’s knee issues during negotiations. The striker’s rupture of his meniscus in 2019 while at Mainz resulted in surgery and a six-month layoff. Milan’s examination revealed that Mateta might require further surgical intervention to fully resolve the lingering knee problem, prompting the Serie A club to withdraw from the deal.

This decision has major implications for Mateta’s career, as the move was not only a fresh opportunity but also critical for his ambitions with the French national team. With the 2026 World Cup approaching, missing game time for recovery could jeopardize his place in Didier Deschamps’ squad.

Competition and Uncertain Future at Crystal Palace

The fallout from the failed Mateta transfer to AC Milan leaves the striker at a crossroads. Palace recently strengthened their attack by signing Jorgen Strand Larsen from Wolves for a club-record £48 million, signaling increased competition for the centre-forward role. Mateta has scored eight goals in the Premier League this season, but only one in his last ten appearances, mirroring the club’s overall dip in form.

Larsen, his likely replacement, also had a challenging season prior to joining Palace, scoring just once for Wolves in 22 league appearances. With both strikers facing form struggles, Palace must find solutions quickly to avoid a deeper slide in the league standings.

Mateta’s International Prospects on the Line

Mateta’s resurgence last season saw him earn his first France cap and score twice in three matches, significantly raising his international profile. However, should he opt for knee surgery now, his absence from club football could see him fall down the pecking order for Les Bleus, especially with France’s wealth of attacking options.

If he avoids surgery, Mateta may struggle for minutes in a Palace side eager to justify its investment in Larsen. This predicament complicates his path to the 2026 World Cup, as consistent club performances are essential for national team selection.

Palace’s Transfer Policy and Summer Outlook

Crystal Palace have experienced a trend of losing top talents in recent windows, with Michael Olise, Eberechi Eze, and Marc Guehi all departing for European powerhouses. As the club aims to avoid another exodus in the summer, the failed Mateta transfer to AC Milan may reignite speculation around his future, with clubs like Nottingham Forest and Juventus reportedly monitoring his situation.

While Palace’s domestic campaign has faltered, there is hope for redemption in European competition. They finished 10th in the Conference League and face Zrinjski Mostar in the knockout play-off round, offering a chance to salvage the season with a memorable continental run. For more news, visit for more news.

Opinion: The Risks and Realities of Transfers Hinged on Fitness

Mateta’s failed transfer to AC Milan is a stark reminder of how crucial medical evaluations are in modern football. For all the hype and anticipation, a player’s long-term fitness is paramount—clubs simply cannot afford to take chances on significant investments. While unfortunate for Mateta, this outcome underscores the importance of transparency and due diligence for both clubs and players. The striker’s next steps must be carefully considered if he is to revive his career ambitions, both at club and international level.