Romano: Crystal Palace star ‘highly regarded’ by Milan and wants Italy move – the situation

Fabrizio Romano has claimed that AC Milan have concrete interest in Jean-Philippe Mateta, who in turn wants to try an experience in Italy.

Milan have already got one striker through the door as Niclas Füllkrug has arrived from West Ham United on an initial loan deal with an option to buy. However, the lack of a prolific number nine and Santiago Gimenez’s injury means that further moves are not ruled out.

One of the names that has been mentioned in recent weeks is Mateta, who has been in excellent form for Crystal Palace since the start of last season. He has nine goal across all competitions in the current campaign, but his contract expires in 18 months and it seems he will not renew.

Mateta to Milan: The latest

In a video on his YouTube channel, Romano gave an update on where Milan’s pursuit of a striker stands. He confirmed that Mateta is a name to watch out for, also suggesting Nkunku might be the one to make way.

“As for Milan’s attack, while we wait to see what will happen with Nkunku, we need to update ourselves on the situation as it unfolds to understand more in the coming days, probably as early as next week based on his performance on the pitch,” he said.

“Speaking of forwards, beyond the Fullkrug issue, which we’ve already put to rest, operation done, regarding Milan’s attack, I want to clarify a couple of things. The first concerns a name we’ve been touting here for a long time, and it’s a name I always want to keep in the Italian and Milan orbit.

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“Because I can confirm that Mateta’s name remains highly regarded within Milan. He’s a player who was already sought after last summer, and has remained on the Rossoneri’s radar in recent months. He’s currently without a contract extension with Crystal Palace, and Mateta maintains this desire for Italy.

“It’s a league he’s been close to joining in the past, and I can confirm once again that Mateta would very much like to embark on an Italian experience, and Milan continue to be interested in pursuing the player. From here to signing Mateta in January, it’s a matter of discussion.

“We’ll see what happens with Nkunku, but above all, we’ll need to understand Crystal Palace’s intentions regarding Mateta, which must be respected in this matter: Palace doesn’t want to lose such a key player today; it will be difficult to break down such a barrier in January.

“Regardless of the timing, whether January or summer, I’d say that for 2026, Mateta is still considering an Italian experience, and Milan continue to pursue Mateta. We will follow developments, he is a name that I will always keep in mind for the discussions on Milan’s attack for the next few months.”