A highly-rated €40m forward from Crystal Palace has emerged on Barcelona’s shortlist as the club looks to strengthen its front line.
With the Polish veteran’s contract expiring and no renewal in sight, Hansi Flick desperately needs a physical No. 9 who can lead the press, hold up play, and bang in goals to sustain the Blaugrana’s lethal attack.
Deco has this Premier League target firmly on the radar as a cost-effective alternative to pricier names like Julián Álvarez, especially with Palace’s leverage weakened by the player’s contract status.
That forward is Jean-Philippe Mateta, the 28-year-old powerhouse who nearly escaped Selhurst Park in January for AC Milan before a medical snag derailed the €30m deal, as reported by Fichajes.
Now entering his final contract year, Mateta’s 14 Premier League goals this season – plus aerial dominance and link-up nous – make him an enticing fit for Flick’s gegenpress, where he’d complement Lamine Yamal and Raphinha’s flair.
Palace’s arrival of Jørgen Strand Larsen has demoted him to squad rotation, prompting a sale to avoid a free exit in 2027.
Mateta’s physical edge addresses Barcelona’s fragility against set-pieces and compact defenses, as exposed in the Atletico Copa meltdown.
His work rate aligns with Flick’s high-intensity demands, offering rotation relief for an aging Lewandowski while resale value remains.
Crystal Palace, resigned to cashing in, could accept €35-40m – a bargain versus Álvarez’s €80m+ tag – fitting Deco’s FFP-savvy model amid presidential elections.
Competition brews from Manchester United and resurgent Milan, but Barcelona’s Champions League pull and Spanish tax perks tempt Mateta, who’s battled knee issues but dodged surgery.
For Flick, still chasing a quadruple despite injuries to Pedri and Gavi, Mateta promises immediate impact without breaking the bank.
Securing him would cap a shrewd window, blending Premier League grit with La Masia magic for sustained dominance.
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