With Milan pursuing Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta to replace struggling Santiago Gimenez, bettors might see value in Milan scoring markets and Mateta anytime-scorer bets. A January arrival could lift Milan’s goal output and shorten their title odds, so consider backing Milan to score 2+ or Mateta for an anytime goal if odds are attractive.
Milan Target Jean-Philippe Mateta as Gimenez Struggles
AC Milan are reportedly eyeing Crystal Palace forward Jean-Philippe Mateta as a January option to bolster a centre-forward position that has underperformed this season. Santiago Gimenez, signed from Feyenoord in January 2025 for around €28.5m plus add-ons, has managed just seven goals in 30 appearances for the Rossoneri and is currently struggling to make an impact in Serie A.
Gimenez’s Form and Injury Concerns
Gimenez has gone goalless in Serie A this campaign and has been sidelined for over a month with an ankle injury that also kept him out of international duty in November. His lack of form and fitness has increased the pressure on Milan’s recruitment ahead of the winter window, and the club is prepared to consider sales to free funds for a replacement.
Why Mateta Fits the Profile
Jean-Philippe Mateta has attracted interest due to his scoring return this season — nine goals in 22 appearances across all competitions — and the fact his contract at Palace runs until June 2027 with no new deal in sight. The French striker recently marked his senior international debut with two goals, enhancing his stock as a ready-made option for a team chasing domestic honours.
Transfer Dynamics and Valuation
Crystal Palace have historically put a high price tag on Mateta; earlier bids reported at €40m were rebuffed in favour of a demand near €50m plus add-ons. That valuation complicates negotiations, but Milan have tracked Mateta before and could revisit talks if they can frame a deal that balances cost with the need for immediate attacking reinforcements.
Squad Context at Milan
Milan lead the Serie A standings early in the campaign but remain viewed by many as outsiders in the title race, with rivals still favored. Christian Pulisic is Milan’s top scorer so far, while Rafael Leao and Alexis Saelemaekers contribute in attack. New coach Massimiliano Allegri has guided the side to an extended unbeaten run in the league, but the lack of consistent goals from the main striker position remains a concern.
Potential Outcomes and Market Implications
If Milan pursue Mateta and Gimenez departs, expect short-term shifts in betting markets: Milan’s odds to win matches or the title could improve slightly if a proven scorer arrives, while markets for goalscorers would open opportunities on Mateta as an anytime scorer. For punters, markets to watch include Milan scoring totals, first-half goals, and Mateta’s shots or conversion props should a transfer materialize.
Clubs Linked and Timing
Clubs in England have been linked with Gimenez as potential buyers, and Milan must balance incoming and outgoing business to finalize any January moves. Palace’s financial position — strengthened by recent sales — means they are unlikely to accept a major discount, so any deal will depend on Milan’s willingness to meet valuation or structure creative add-ons.
What to Expect Before January
Watch for concrete offers and negotiations as the window approaches. Milan’s recruitment focus will be on securing a striker who can provide immediate goals and adapt to Allegri’s tactical setup. For bettors, monitoring deadline developments will be crucial: transfer confirmations tend to move odds and open short-term opportunities in player markets and match bets.
Serie A: Crazy title race sees at least four teams separated by just one point
Jean-Philippe Mateta is reportedly tempted to move to Italy, and Milan remain interested in the...
Football Italia