Jean-Philippe Mateta’s (28) proposed move from Crystal Palace to AC Milan is in serious doubt after complications emerged during the striker’s medical, sources have told BBC Sport.
The 28-year-old France forward, who has been managing a knee issue, underwent an initial examination on Sunday before further tests were carried out on Monday. Those findings have raised concerns in Milan, with the Serie A club now expected to withdraw from a £30m deal despite Mateta’s desire to leave Selhurst Park.
Palace had been reluctant to sanction Mateta’s departure without securing a replacement, but agreed to his medical after reaching a £48m agreement with Wolves for Jorgen Strand Larsen. Mateta was given permission to complete initial checks in London before travelling to Italy, but the process has stalled at a critical stage.
The uncertainty leaves Palace facing a delicate final stretch of the transfer window. Nottingham Forest had a £35m bid for Mateta rejected last weekend, while manager Oliver Glasner has acknowledged the risk of being left short in attack should the forward depart without reinforcements arriving.
Wolves, meanwhile, are pressing ahead with plans to replace Strand Larsen and are close to signing Southampton striker Adam Armstrong for an initial £7m, as they attempt to strengthen a squad battling relegation.
Palace are also exploring alternatives of their own, with Everton winger Dwight McNeil emerging as a late target.
GFN | Finn Entwistle
