Atletico Madrid have expressed strong interest in signing Crystal Palace’s 27-year-old French striker Jean-Philippe Mateta, as they look to bolster their attacking options. However, Lyon’s American owner, John Textor, is also keen on bringing Mateta to Ligue 1, potentially setting up a transfer tug-of-war.
With Mateta’s contract at Crystal Palace running until 2026, his future remains uncertain as the Eagles weigh up offers for their forward.
📊 Player Profile & Career Stats
- Name: Jean-Philippe Mateta
- Age: 27 (Born June 28, 1997)
- Nationality: France
- Position: Striker
- Height: 192 cm
- Current Club: Crystal Palace
🔹 2024/25 Season Performance (Crystal Palace)
- Premier League Appearances: 20
- Goals: 7
- Assists: 2
- Shots on Target per 90 mins: 2.4
- Aerial Duels Won per 90 mins: 3.1
📈 Career Record (All Clubs)
- Total Appearances: 210
- Goals: 72
- Assists: 21
- International Caps (France Youth Levels): 11 (5 goals)
🔎 Why Are Atletico Madrid & Lyon Interested?
🔴 Atletico Madrid’s Need for a Striker
- Atletico Madrid wants a physical, target-man striker to complement Antoine Griezmann.
- With Alvaro Morata’s inconsistent form, Mateta offers strength and hold-up play.
🔵 Lyon’s Ambitious Push
- Lyon’s owner John Textor is a major shareholder at Crystal Palace, which could help in negotiations.
- Lyon sees Mateta as a perfect replacement for outgoing forwards in Ligue 1.
⚖️ How Does Mateta Compare to Atletico & Lyon’s Current Strikers?
| Striker | 2024/25 Goals | Assists | Shots per 90 | Aerial Duels Won |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Jean-Philippe Mateta (Crystal Palace) | 7 | 2 | 2.4 | 3.1 |
| Memphis Depay (Atletico Madrid) | 5 | 3 | 2.2 | 1.9 |
| Alexandre Lacazette (Lyon) | 9 | 4 | 2.7 | 2.4 |
💡 Analysis: Mateta provides a strong aerial presence and physicality, which neither Depay nor Lacazette fully replicate.
💰 Potential Transfer Fee & Challenges
- Crystal Palace are reportedly seeking £50 million for Mateta.
- Lyon’s financial limitations might make a loan-to-buy option more realistic.
- Atletico Madrid has the spending power to outbid Lyon, but it depends on their summer strategy.
👀 Fan Reactions & Social Media Buzz
💬 “Mateta at Atletico would be a great fit! Big, physical, and works hard.” – @LaLigaFan
💬 “Lyon should go all in for Mateta! Ligue 1 needs more powerful strikers.” – @Ligue1Talk
💬 “Crystal Palace selling Mateta? Hope we get a solid replacement first.” – @EaglesSupporter
🏆 Verdict: Where Will Mateta End Up?
Both Atletico Madrid and Lyon are strong contenders for Mateta’s signature. While Atletico may have the financial edge, Lyon’s ownership links with Crystal Palace could make a deal easier to facilitate.
With Mateta’s contract running until 2026, Palace holds negotiating power. The summer transfer window could see a bidding war for the French striker.
📢 What do you think? Should Mateta join Atletico Madrid or Lyon? Drop your thoughts in the comments!
