Liverpool are preparing to accelerate their search for a new striker as the start of the new Premier League campaign draws closer.
With question marks lingering over the futures of Darwin Núñez and Luis Díaz, and the tragic loss of Diogo Jota, the need for reinforcements in the forward line has become more urgent.
While Newcastle United’s Alexander Isak remains the dream signing, the Reds are well aware of the complexities surrounding a potential move for the Swedish international. The Magpies are keen to keep their star man, and any negotiations are expected to be drawn out and expensive.
As a result, Liverpool may be forced to look elsewhere. Hugo Ekitike has been on the radar, but Eintracht Frankfurt’s valuation could prove too expensive. Having already shattered the British transfer record this summer by signing German playmaker Florian Wirtz, the Merseyside club are now exploring more cost effective yet proven alternatives.
One name gaining serious traction is Crystal Palace forward Jean-Philippe Mateta.
According to Foot Mercato, Liverpool have initiated contact with Mateta’s representatives and recently held talks in Paris. The French striker is believed to be open to a move to Anfield, and discussions have started over a potential deal that could be worth between £43.5–52 million. Crystal Palace are reportedly open to cashing in if a substantial bid arrives, with Mateta’s current market value estimated at around £26 million by Transfermarkt.
?french striker Jean-Philippe Mateta ?? and his representative met with Liverpool in Paris last dayshttps://t.co/sG8knv9SFvpic.twitter.com/jmLzocZvAH
— Sébastien Denis (@sebnonda) July 14, 2025
But Liverpool aren’t the only club interested the 28-year-old, with arch rivals Manchester United keen to overhaul their attack after they were toothless in forward areas last season. Mateta’s current deal at Crystal Palace runs until June 2027 after the club recently triggered a 12-month extension. However, there are murmurs that the Eagles are also in talks over a new, improved deal in a bid to protect his value.
The striker has enjoyed a remarkable spell at Selhurst Park, becoming one of the Premier League’s most underrated goal scorers. Across the past two seasons, Mateta has netted 19 and 17 goals respectively in all competitions. During the 2024–25 season, he scored 17 goals in 37 Premier League appearances, adding two assists and proving crucial to Palace’s top-flight campaign under Oliver Glasner.
Alongside Eberechi Eze, Mateta helped fire the Eagles to FA Cup glory, netting five goals in the competition and playing a pivotal role in their triumph at Wembley. His consistency in front of goal, combined with his physical presence, makes him a compelling option for Arne Slot’s frontline.
Mateta’s evolution under Glasner has seen him develop into a more complete striker. While always physically dominant, the 28-year-old has improved his off the ball movement, positioning inside the box and composure in front of goal. His ability to hold up play and win aerial duels would add a different dynamic to Liverpool’s attack.
Despite not being a household name, Mateta has proven he can deliver in big moments. He scored crucial goals in high-stakes games, including a sublime lobbed finish against Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium in April — a huge game in the context of the Premier League title race. The 2–2 draw meant that Arne Slot’s win against Tottenham Hotspur at Anfield was enough for Liverpool to be confirmed champions of England for the 20th time.
Speaking after the game against Arsenal, Sky Sports pundit spoke highly of the Frenchman.
“I think there’ll be other clubs looking at him. Crystal Palace supporters might get upset by that, but that’s a brilliant finish. For a couple of seasons now, he’s been not just a handful, but a real goal-getter. I think he’s brilliant — a really good player.”
Arne Slot is overseeing a major transition at Liverpool, and while the club has already secured five summer signings — Giorgi Mamardashvili, Jeremie Frimpong, Florian Wirtz, Milos Kerkez, and Freddie Woodman — and the Dutchman is keen to add a reliable striker to lead the line.
With Champions League ambitions and the desire to retain the Premier League title, squad depth is non-negotiable. Mateta may not be the marquee name many fans envisioned, but his form, experience, and style of play make him an intriguing candidate. Importantly, he represents a potentially more clinical and physically commanding alternative to Darwin Núñez a player who has yet to deliver consistently despite his flashes of brilliance.
The Eagles could be tempted to sell if a bid in excess of £50 million arrives. For Liverpool, that price, while significant, could prove a bargain if Mateta continues his current trajectory.
Whether the club can finalise a deal remains to be seen, especially with Manchester United and others reportedly monitoring the situation closely. But one thing is clear, Mateta is no longer under the radar. He’s now a genuine target for top Premier League sides and potentially on the verge of a career-defining move.
