GdS: Two conditions must be met for Mateta to join Milan from Crystal Palace

Jean-Philippe Mateta could be the big signing for AC Milan in this transfer window, but in order to secure him immediately, two conditions will have to be met. 

Milan have been scratching their heads with regard to the No.9 position this season. As both Santiago Gimenez and Christopher Nkunku struggled to perform, Niclas Füllkrug was brought in at the beginning of the month to improve the situation.

Then, after initially planning his arrival for the summer, the Rossoneri accelerated their pursuit of Crystal Palace’s Mateta. The negotiations are now at an advanced stage and could close in these final days, but it’s not a certainty.

Missing parts for a total agreement

As reported by today’s edition of Gazzetta dello Sport (see photo below), for the deal to close before the window ends, two conditions will have to be met: 1) Crystal Palace will have to find a replacement and 2) Milan will have to find a new club for Nkunku, preferably on a permanent basis.

Yesterday, there were phone and video calls between the Milan management, Crystal Palace and the striker’s agent (Paul Latouche) late into the night. Talks will resume this morning as it’s clear that Mateta wants to wear the red and black shirt immediately.

For Massimiliano Allegri, who was at Casa Milan yesterday morning for a meeting with Giorgio Furlani and Iglie Tare, it would be a signing worthy of the Scudetto.

From interest to concrete talks

Milan have been following the French striker since last May, when the idea of signing him was probed by the management. However, at the time, his price tag was simply too high and Crystal Palace were unwilling to sell him.

This month, talks resumed when Juventus and Nottingham Forest appeared in the race, forcing the Rossoneri to evaluate an early move. Furlani and Tare were able to secure the player’s approval, as he wants Serie A experience with a team that wants to win, like Milan.

The agreement with the player is as follows: a contract until 2030 worth €3.5m plus bonuses per year. It remains to be seen whether the deal will kick in immediately or on July 1st.

Nkunku dilemma remains

Having said all of the above, Milan will have to find the next destination for Nkunku. The forward’s agent has been alerted, and since the World Cup is coming up, the former Chelsea man might have to give in. After all, Mateta’s arrival would move him down the pecking order.

Nkunku has several offers (one from Roma), but he doesn’t seem convinced by any of them as things stand. Milan want to sell him permanently, but could also accept a paid loan deal if the amount is the same as the remaining amortisation for the season (around €4m), while saving on the salary.