Crystal Palace’s response to Liverpool interest in Marc Guehi revealed
Crystal Palace are making every effort to retain Jean-Philippe Mateta this summer, despite continued interest from Manchester United. According to Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, senior correspondent Pete O’Rourke shared insights from sources on the 28-year-old’s future and Liverpool’s pursuit of Marc Guehi.
AC Milan are also monitoring Mateta, while Sporting boss Ruben Amorim is said to be targeting a new striker. Former United scout Mick Brown previously confirmed that United are closely watching Mateta, even as Palace remain in contract discussions with the French forward.
Though Liverpool held talks with Mateta’s camp in Paris, their interest appears to have cooled as they now focus on finalizing a big-money deal for Hugo Ekitike, as reported by Football Insider on 20 July.
Despite the growing interest, Mateta remains central to Oliver Glasner’s plans at Selhurst Park. Palace are confident of keeping him, as well as key teammates like Eberechi Eze and Marc Guehi, all of whom have attracted interest from top Premier League clubs.
O’Rourke emphasized Palace’s urgent desire to avoid a “disaster” scenario where they lose multiple star players in one window. Mateta, who scored 17 goals last season and played a vital role in Palace’s FA Cup success, is under contract for two more years—putting the club in a strong position.
“They’re locking things down,” said O’Rourke, “with major clubs circling players like Eze, Guehi, and now Mateta. Palace can’t afford a mass exodus.”
As a sequel to their summer strategy, Palace aim to resist pressure from top sides and hold onto Mateta, even as Manchester United ramp up their search for a new striker. Meanwhile, United are also eyeing Douglas Luiz to bolster their midfield, battling Everton and Nottingham Forest for the Brazilian’s signature.
With two years left on Mateta’s deal and Palace unwilling to sell, the club remains firm, flexible only if a substantial offer forces their hand.