Mateta Milan move collapses after failed medical
Jean-Philippe Mateta remains a Crystal Palace player after a late January move to AC Milan fell apart following issues uncovered during his medical. The French striker had pushed for an exit from Selhurst Park and appeared close to a switch to San Siro, only for the deal to collapse at the final hurdle.
Palace and Milan had reached an agreement that allowed Mateta to undergo medical checks in Italy, raising expectations that the 28-year-old would secure his desired transfer. Those hopes faded when concerns emerged during the examination, prompting the Serie A giants to withdraw.
Mateta’s situation had already grown tense in south London. He was left out of Palace’s squad for the 1–1 Premier League draw at Nottingham Forest, a decision explained by head coach Oliver Glasner as a protective measure rather than a transfer-related punishment.
The decisive issue centered on Mateta’s right knee. Palace disclosed his medical history during negotiations, including a meniscus rupture suffered in 2019 while playing for Mainz that required surgery and kept him sidelined for six months. Milan concluded that further surgery would likely be necessary to fully resolve the problem and deemed the risk too high.
The setback arrives at a delicate moment in Mateta’s career. Strong form last season earned him his first France call-up, and he has scored twice in three appearances for Les Bleus. That run placed him firmly in the conversation for Didier Deschamps’ plans ahead of the 2026 World Cup, but an extended spell out through surgery could severely damage his prospects.
At club level, his role is also under threat. Palace invested around £48 million to sign Jorgen Strand Larsen from Wolves in a club-record deal, a move that points to a reduced role for Mateta if he stays. While he has eight Premier League goals this season, only one has come in his last ten appearances as Palace’s form dipped.
Despite the disappointment of the Milan collapse, the wider picture suggests this may not be the end of the story. Palace have seen several key players move on in recent seasons, and Mateta is expected to revisit his future in the summer. Nottingham Forest have previously shown interest, while Juventus have also monitored his situation.
For now, Mateta must refocus at Palace, balancing his fitness, form, and international ambitions. The coming months will likely determine whether this stalled move becomes a temporary setback or the turning point toward a new chapter elsewhere.