AC Milan decide to pull off Mateta’s transfer after medical.
Sports Updated: 02 February 2026 20:34 EAT
Crystal Palace versatile star forward Phillipe Mateta
AC Milan have decided to abandon their pursuit of French striker Jean-Philippe Mateta after concerns emerged during the player’s medical examination, bringing an abrupt end to negotiations with Premier League side Crystal Palace.
The Serie A club had been in advanced talks to sign the 28-year-old forward, with reports indicating that a fee in the region of £30 million to £40 million had been discussed and personal terms were close to agreement.
Mateta travelled for medical checks as the deal entered its final stage on transfer deadline day, raising expectations that the move would be completed before the window closed.
However, sources close to the process revealed that AC Milan’s medical staff identified issues, particularly related to a knee condition that has affected the striker in the past.
Following additional examinations and internal discussions, Milan concluded that the medical findings posed too great a long-term risk and informed Crystal Palace of their decision not to proceed.
The move collapsed just hours before the deadline, leaving little time for either club to explore alternative options in the market.
For Crystal Palace, the failed transfer disrupted their recruitment plans, as the sale of Mateta was expected to help finance incoming signings, including a potential move for another striker.
Mateta has been a key figure for Palace in recent seasons, contributing important goals and performances in the Premier League, which had attracted interest from several European clubs.
Despite the setback, the striker remains under contract at Selhurst Park and is expected to continue with the club unless a late or future move materialises.
AC Milan, meanwhile, are likely to reassess their attacking targets after deciding to prioritise medical certainty over completing the deal.
The club’s decision reflects a cautious approach as they aim to strengthen their squad without taking on significant injury risks.
With the transfer window now closed, Mateta’s future is set to remain a topic of discussion ahead of the next market opportunity.
Tags: Ac Milan English Premier League Signs Media Kenya Limited Italy Serie A Transfer Window Sports Journalism
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FELIX MAKONA
FACT FINDER AND DATA DRIVEN JOURNALIST. DATA MINING AT IT'S BEST. GET FACTS RANGING FROM MATTERS DISABILITY AND INCLUSION, POLITICS, ECONOMY, SPORTS AND GENERAL NEWS AROUND THE WORLD