Jean Philippe Mateta Rules Out Saudi Move Despite Tranfer Rumours
Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta has reportedly ruled out a move to the Saudi Pro League and is now focused on planning his next step as speculation over his future intensifies.
The French forward’s situation has been one of the leading stories in the Premier League transfer market recently, with clubs across Europe linked to the 28-year-old — but sources indicate Mateta is no longer considering a switch to the Middle East, instead turning his attention to staying in top-flight European football.
Mateta’s current contract at Selhurst Park runs until the summer of 2027, but he is understood to be keen to test himself at a higher level — particularly in competitions like the UEFA Champions League, something Palace are not involved in this season.
That desire for greater exposure on big stages has fuelled his openness to leaving Crystal Palace, even though a big money offer from Saudi clubs will not be on his radar at this stage.
The striker has been one of Palace’s most important players over the last few seasons, scoring regularly and becoming a fan favourite for his physical presence and goal-scoring instincts.
Across his time with the Eagles, he has registered over 50 goals and has cemented his reputation as one of the Premier League’s most reliable forwards.
Despite his achievements, Mateta’s future at Palace has increasingly looked uncertain this season.
The forward reportedly handed in a transfer request earlier this month, signalling his wish to leave if the right opportunity comes along before the January window closes.
Reports suggest the decision is rooted not only in his sporting ambitions but also in salary considerations, with Mateta feeling that his current earnings, reportedly around £55,000 per week, do not reflect his importance or performance levels within the squad.
Crystal Palace have hinted that they are willing to listen to offers for the France international, but they are keen to get the highest possible fee for a player entering the last 18 months of his contract.
Sky Sports and other outlets have put Palace’s valuation in the region of £40 million, a figure that has reportedly dampened interest from several potential suitors so far.
One club that has shown genuine interest is Serie A side Juventus, who are said to have been tracking Mateta and even submitted a loan approach with an option to buy last month.
Palace rejected the initial proposal, which reportedly valued the striker at around €30 million including loan fees, with the English club insisting that only a permanent transfer at or above their valuation would be considered.
The Juventus interest is one of the more concrete links in the current market, but transfer insiders suggest that negotiations have not progressed beyond initial discussions.
The Italian side reportedly sees Mateta as an option to bolster their attacking options, particularly as they deal with injuries to some of their regular strikers.
Whether that interest will turn into a full offer remains unclear, but the situation has kept Premier League and European clubs watching closely.
Other clubs have also been mentioned in connection with Mateta’s future, though none have appeared to make a serious offer yet. Speculation has linked him with moves within England as well as possible interest from European teams where his physical style and finishing could be valuable.
However, none of these rumours have been confirmed with official bids or public statements. For their part, Crystal Palace are said to be preparing for the possibility of Mateta’s departure by exploring targets to refresh their forward line.
The club’s recent sales — including captain Marc Guéhi moving to Manchester City — have reshaped the squad this season, and Palace are keen to reinvest any transfer income into strengthening areas that need depth, including attack and defence.
Mateta’s career has seen a steady rise since his move to Selhurst Park, and he also earned his first senior France call-ups in 2025, even scoring on his debut.
That international recognition has only added to his appeal and likely strengthened his belief that he can perform at a higher level than Palace currently compete in.
Off the pitch, the forward has been praised for his professionalism and character, bouncing back from challenges including a serious injury he sustained last season that required extensive treatment but did not hold him back long term.
As the transfer window progresses, the eyes of many fans and analysts will remain on Mateta’s situation.
Whether he stays at Palace to finish the season or moves to a new club ready to offer Champions League football, his next move could define the next chapter of his career.
Pending interest and the right valuation, a January move — or a summer switch — might still be on the cards, even as the Saudi option has been publicly dismissed by the player and his camp
