Jean-Philippe Mateta to Join Nottingham Forest

It's the familiar musical chairs game of the transfer window. Earlier today, we revealed that a preliminary agreement had been reached between Aston Villa and Crystal Palace for the loan with an option to buy for Evann Guessand. The Ivorian striker will bolster the Eagles' attack, where Jean-Philippe Mateta (28 years old) is set to leave. This transfer, announced in early January, is becoming increasingly concrete.

According to reports, the player from the French national team (3 caps, 2 goals) will indeed head to Nottingham Forest. An agreement is close to being finalized between the two Premier League clubs, and it is expected to be around €40 million. The center-forward has already given the green light to join the Reds, even though they are currently ranked lower after 23 matches in the league (17th compared to 15th).

A Transfer Estimated at €40 Million

The English club has gained the upper hand in this deal, despite competition, particularly from Italy. Juventus had long sought to negotiate his arrival. Mateta was even close to agreeing with the Old Lady, but the issue was between the clubs. Then AC Milan also expressed interest. An offer was sent but was reportedly rejected by Palace.

The former Lyon player is now set to leave a club where he was a key player. His 10 goals (and 2 assists) in 34 matches across all competitions helped propel his team, having arrived in the summer of 2022 from Mainz for €11 million. With the Eagles, he won the FA Cup last year and the Community Shield at the start of the season, earning him a spot with Didier Deschamps' national team. He is also vying for a place in the 2026 World Cup.