How Jean-Philippe Mateta feels about Nottingham Forest transfer

Nottingham Forest’s search for a new striker may not be finished just yet.

Lorenzo Lucca has already arrived from Napoli, but Forest are still exploring the market — and Jean-Philippe Mateta has now emerged as a serious target.

The Crystal Palace forward has been linked with a move to the City Ground, with Forest believed to be preparing a bid in the region of £35m as the January window enters its final stretch.

According to David Ornstein of The Athletic, Mateta would be open to a move to Nottingham Forest before the deadline.

Forest are understood to be ready to offer a lucrative contract package, and the Frenchman is receptive to the project, with personal terms not expected to be an issue should clubs agree a fee.

That willingness is significant. Mateta was Crystal Palace’s top scorer last season, playing a central role in their FA Cup triumph and Europa Conference League qualification. Despite that success, the striker is believed to be open to a new challenge.

Since joining Palace, Mateta has scored 56 goals in 186 appearances, establishing himself as a proven Premier League forward.

At 28, a fee potentially rising towards £40m may raise eyebrows, but in the current market, that valuation reflects both experience and availability — especially for a striker who has delivered consistently at top-flight level.

Forest, facing a relegation battle, are clearly prioritising reliability and physical presence in attack.

Any January exit would hinge on Crystal Palace lining up a replacement.

One name under consideration is Wolves striker Jorgen Strand Larsen, who could be available for around £40m. Wolves’ situation near the bottom of the table has made several of their players potential targets this window.

Only if Palace feel confident of securing cover are they likely to green-light Mateta’s departure.

Mateta has made it clear he would consider joining Forest despite their current league position, a sign of both ambition and belief in the club’s survival prospects.

If Forest can get this deal over the line, it would be a major statement — adding a proven Premier League goalscorer to a squad already strengthened this month.

With time running out, this one feels finely balanced — but momentum is clearly building.

Forest are expected to formalise their approach in the coming days. Palace’s ability to secure a striker replacement will likely determine whether this move happens before deadline day.

Would Mateta be the striker Forest need to stay up — or is the fee too risky?