AC Milan Identify ‘Serie A Fan’ Jean-Philippe Mateta As Potential Christopher Nkunku Replacement

Jean-Philippe Mateta has been earmarked by AC Milan as a possible upgrade on summer flop Christopher Nkunku. 

Mateta’s future has been cast into doubt this season as the Crystal Palace star seeks a new venture. The French international wants to play Champions League soccer and could realize his dream with AC.

Max Allegri’s side is very much in the hunt not just for a top four finish, but the Scudetto itself. Something of which will tilt the scales in their favor as they chase Mateta.

Jean-Philippe Mateta On AC Milan’s Shortlist

Roma’s pursuit of Jean-Philippe Mateta has since cooled which has left the path much clearer for AC Milan. It’s no secret that the Rossoneri want new firepower with Santiago Gimenez and Christopher Nkunku both struggling.

Mateta has established himself as one of Europe’s best forwards in recent seasons. The 28-year-old has seven league goals in 2025-26 which included a hat-trick against Bournemouth.

Not only that, Mateta has finished as Crystal Palace’s top scorer over the last two campaigns. He was also part of the side who won the 2025 FA Cup and Community Shield.

Although interest in Mateta is set to intensify, Milan holds a trump card compared to other European suitors. The France star has previously confessed he is a ‘Serie A fan.’

How Much Will Jean-Philippe Mateta Cost?

It’s still very much up for debate how much Jean-Philippe Mateta will cost. Atalanta had a €35million bid turned down in the summer. FootItalia sources confirmed La Dea may try their luck again – offering around €30m.

It remains to be seen whether Raffaele Palldino will push on with plans to sign Mateta. From AC Milan’s perspective, they will have to table a bid sooner rather than latter if they are adamant about bringing him on board.

Interest will be fierce and although Niclas Fullkrug is close to joining, Milan want more options with Santiago Gimenez a potential January exit.

If the Mexican was to leave the San Siro on a permanent deal, the funds acquired could be used to lure Mateta to Italy to sharpen Max Allegri’s attack.

Will Christopher Nkunku Quit AC Milan?

Not only could Gimenez be on his way out, summer-signing Christopher Nkunku is very much in the last chance saloon. So much so that the Italian press praised Nkunku after he scored a brace against Hellas Verona.

That game was essentially an audition which the Frenchman passed with flying colors. However, his overall form has been poor and he has been strongly linked with a move away.

With that said, journalist Ben Jacobs insists that Nkunku has no desire to leave the Rossoneri. Even though Fenerbahce is set to bid €35m in January for the former Chelsea star.

The Turkish giants are understood to be in negotiations with AC about the purchase of Nkunku. Although the player reportedly has ‘no desire to leave,’ Max Allegri may insist he quits so Jean-Philippe Mateta can be drafted in.