Jean-Philippe Mateta’s proposed transfer from Crystal Palace to AC Milan has dramatically collapsed on deadline day after the striker failed his medical examination, throwing several interconnected deals into uncertainty across Europe.
AC Milan had sent a club doctor to assess Mateta’s condition, but following the checks, the Italian giants decided not to proceed with the transfer. The decision has brought the deal to a complete halt, despite the player being keen on a move to San Siro.
Attention has now turned to Juventus, who had also shown interest in Mateta. However, with the transfer window rapidly closing, time is running out for the Turin club to revive a move. Juventus are also exploring other attacking options, including a potential loan return for Randal Kolo Muani from Tottenham Hotspur, though Spurs have yet to approve such a deal.
The collapse of Mateta’s transfer could have wider repercussions. Crystal Palace were planning to sell the striker before completing a club-record move for Wolves forward Jørgen Strand Larsen. Wolves, in turn, were expected to replace him with Southampton’s Adam Armstrong. While sources suggest Palace still intend to pursue Strand Larsen regardless of Mateta’s situation, doubts remain over whether the entire chain of deals can survive this late twist.
Elsewhere, Nottingham Forest’s attempts to strengthen their midfield appear set to fail. Robin Gosens has rejected Forest’s advances, choosing to stay at Fiorentina to help the club avoid relegation, while Inter are unwilling to part with Davide Frattesi despite interest from multiple Serie A sides.
As the deadline approaches, Mateta may now be forced to return to Selhurst Park after publicly preparing for a departure. The revelation of a failed medical could also significantly reduce his market value, making this one of the most dramatic and consequential deadline-day developments.