Jean-Philippe Mateta has turned himself into one of the Premier League’s most effective No.9s under Oliver Glasner, yet rumours continue to swirl around his future at Crystal Palace. With his contract running until 2027 — and talks over improved terms currently stalled — speculation linking him with a summer move to AC Milan has gathered traction. But one former Crystal Palace forward believes the Frenchman should think twice.
Speaking to MilanNews, former Eagles striker Glenn Murray offered a measured but pointed warning to the 27-year-old, urging him to avoid assuming that a move to a European giant automatically means career progression. Mateta has been floated as a serious option for Milan, with journalist Carlo Pellegatti openly recommending him as a potential No.9 for the Rossoneri next season.
Yet Murray argues that leaving a stable, tailored environment comes with risks — especially for a striker thriving in a system built specifically for him.
Glenn Murray: “Sometimes you think you can do better and things go wrong”
Murray did not downplay the lure of the San Siro, acknowledging that playing for Milan “would be huge” for any player. But the former Palace man believes Mateta should be cautious about assuming success abroad is guaranteed.
He said: “Every footballer dreams of playing for a European team… But would that be the right thing for him now? Palace play in Europe, he’s the key number nine in a team that makes him play at his best. There is every reason to be happy where he is.”
Murray added that Milan’s prestige is undeniable, but the move could also carry real risk: “Being AC Milan’s number nine is a huge draw… But as they say: ‘always be careful what you wish for’ and right now he’s a happy man at Crystal Palace.”
His message was clear: Mateta is valued at Palace, in form, and in the best environment of his career. Walking away from that stability shouldn’t be done lightly.
The AC Milan question — opportunity or trap?
Mateta’s stock is the highest it has ever been. He has eight goals and one assist in 20 appearances this season, and his 14-goal Premier League haul in 2024/25 proved he can produce over a full campaign. Under Glasner, he has become the focal point — a pressing striker with licence to attack the six-yard box, supported by dynamic wide players.
From our perspective covering Palace closely, the system is the key factor here. Glasner’s structure suits Mateta perfectly: vertical runners, early deliveries, and repeated penalty-box entries. Although some fans might think Milan represents a step up, the nuance is that Milan have cycled through strikers for nearly a decade without finding a consistent long-term fit. That level of instability can be lethal for a forward whose confidence is tied to rhythm.
This supports Murray’s point: Milan might tempt the imagination, but the footballing situation isn’t automatically better.
Contract tension in the background
As FootballPlace reported this week, Mateta’s contract situation is adding a layer of complexity. Palace triggered his extension to 2027 last December, but negotiations over a new deal have slowed due to a salary gap. Mateta earns around £50,000 per week, and the latest offer does not yet meet what his representatives believe reflects his status.
Although some supporters fear this opens the door for Milan, sources around the club insist Palace are still confident of reaching an agreement. In our view, this is where the real strategic battle lies. Milan interest might strengthen Mateta’s negotiating position, but Palace know the system depends heavily on his presence.
Numbers That Tell the Story
| Stat (2025/26) | Jean-Philippe Mateta |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 20 |
| Goals | 8 |
| Assists | 1 |
| Pass Accuracy | –% |
source: Sofascore match data – 26 November 2025
These numbers show a striker in rhythm. Mateta’s chance-conversion rate has improved each season under Glasner, and he is now far more efficient in tight spaces. For Milan, that makes him attractive. For Palace, it makes him vital.
Our View: Should Mateta stay?
From my experience analysing forwards moving between leagues, the biggest risk is system shock. The Premier League and Serie A demand very different striker profiles. Milan’s No.9 role is incredibly high-pressure: a symbolic shirt, a demanding supporter base, and a club still struggling to find its identity in the final third. The list of strikers who have failed there is long.
Although some may frame a Milan move as an “upgrade”, it’s worth questioning whether Mateta would receive the same trust, minutes and tactical clarity he currently enjoys. Palace have built around him; Milan would not.
In our view, unless the contract dispute becomes irreparable, staying at Palace for at least one more season is the most logical career step. The environment suits him, the goals are flowing, and European football is already in south London.
Key Insights
- Glenn Murray warns Mateta to think carefully before leaving Crystal Palace.
- AC Milan admire the striker, with Carlo Pellegatti recommending him as a target.
- Mateta has eight goals and one assist in 20 games this season.
- Palace contract talks have stalled — salary is the sticking point.
- Milan have struggled to find a reliable No.9 across the last decade.
What’s Next?
Crystal Palace will resume negotiations with Mateta’s camp in the coming weeks. Milan are continuing to assess striker options for the summer, but no formal approach has been made. For now, Mateta remains central to a Palace side pushing for another European qualification spot.
👉 Should Mateta sign a new deal at Crystal Palace — or test himself at AC Milan?
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