Crystal Palace turn down offer from AC Milan for Jean-Philippe Mateta

AC Milan have had a bid for Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta rejected, according to Foot Mercato.

Mateta has scored 27 goals over the last two seasons, helping Palace to FA Cup and Community Shield glory in that time.

This has seen his stock rise massively, and the 28-year-old, who has just 18 months left on his current deal, has attracted interest from both Juventus and Aston Villa.

With Juventus now nearing a loan switch for Youssef En-Nesyri and Villa recently agreeing a deal to sign Tammy Abraham, Milan potentially have a free run at landing Mateta.

The Frenchman has informed Palace of his desire to leave Selhurst Park, but his £40 million valuation may prove to be a stumbling block.

Despite bringing in Niclas Fullkrug on loan from West Ham United, Milan are keen to add firepower to aid their quest for Serie A glory.

The Rossoneri are expected to return with an improved bid for Mateta, with personal terms already agreed.

Should Mateta leave, Palace already have a list of potential replacements, including Evann Guessand and Jorgen Strand Larsen.

However, having already bade farewell to former skipper Marc Guehi in the current winter window, Palace manager Oliver Glasner will hope his side fends off any interest in Mateta as he seeks to arrest a slump in form.

Ahead of Sunday’s London derby against Chelsea, Palace are without a win in 10 matches across all competitions, a run that has affected them both domestically and on the continental scene.