STALEMATE AT SELHURST: Mateta Pushes for Exit as Palace Hunt for Guehi Successor
By 247sportcity | Thursday, January 22, 2026
LONDON – Crystal Palace find themselves at a turbulent crossroads as the January transfer window enters its final 11 days. The South London club is currently juggling a verbal transfer request from star striker Jean-Philippe Mateta, a stalling pursuit of a French wonderkid, and the urgent need to replace departed captain Marc Guehi.
The Mateta Bombshell
In a move that has rocked Selhurst Park, Jean-Philippe Mateta is reportedly trying to force an immediate exit. Despite netting 40 goals in 92 games under Oliver Glasner, the 28-year-old is unhappy with his £55,000-per-week salary. Although Palace offered a significant six-figure increase a year ago, Mateta declined, opting to keep his options open. Now, fearing lost earnings and concerned about his 2026 World Cup prospects with France, he is seeking a move to Serie A.
While Juventus have shown interest, their loan-to-buy proposal was rejected. Palace are holding out for a £40 million fee to maximize their return on the man who has been pivotal to their UEFA Conference League ambitions.
The Search for New Blood
Regardless of Mateta’s future, Palace are pressing ahead with a move for Angers’ 19-year-old forward Sidiki Cherif. Described by Marseille boss Roberto De Zerbi as a “very powerful player,” Cherif has identified Palace as his preferred destination. However, negotiations remain “leisurely,” causing the deal to stall.
Simultaneously, the board is scouring the market for a replacement for Marc Guehi, who recently completed a £20m+ move to Manchester City. Rather than a permanent “big-name” signing, the Eagles are currently prioritizing a short-term loan to stabilize the defense until the summer.
With Oliver Glasner in his final season and a European trophy in his sights, Palace must resolve these internal frictions quickly if they are to salvage their campaign.