Liverpool given green light to agree deal for Premier League forward

Key Highlights

• Now, according to Fabrizio Romano, one of the players the Reds were targeting before they signed Isak and Hugo Ekitike has told his club he wants a move this winter. Romano broke the news on X that Jean-Philippe Mateta has informed Crystal Palace of his desire to leave the London club this window, following negotiations with Juventus and Aston Villa. The Frenchman is under contract for another 18 months, so Palace are not obliged to sell him now, but the Eagles may want to sanction a deal in order to avoid a big fallout. AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementWill Liverpool move for Mateta?Although the Reds aren’t believed to be currently perusing the striker links have persisted since the summer, and his request to leave Palace could be a game changer. Michael Edwards and Richard Hughes have become known for their opportunistic signings, often only sanctioning a transfer when the right opportunity arises, and Mateta trying to force through a move could be that opportunity. Isak will likely miss the rest of the campaign and could even be sidelined into the start of next season too, so bringing in another elite talent to supplement the forward line would give Slot an excellent chance of turning Liverpool’s fortunes around. AdvertisementAdvertisementAdvertisementMateta has already scored 10 goals this season, and his excellent finishing would make him great competition for Ekitike. As Liverpool already have two excellent options up top, there would likely be little longevity in a move for Mateta, but if the 28-year-old were to perform well he could earn himself a permanent place with the Reds or could be sold on for profit. Romano later confirmed on X that Mateta doesn’t want to move to the Saudi Pro League and has his heart set on a Premier League or Serie A move.