Liverpool have reportedly initiated discussions with Crystal Palace over a potential move for striker Jean-Philippe Mateta.
The Reds are enjoying a busy and ambitious summer transfer window, having already secured the signings of Florian Wirtz, Jeremie Frimpong and Milos Kerkez following their dominant Premier League title win last season. Now, reports suggest they have entered the race for Mateta in a bid to further strengthen their attack.
Mateta made his move to Palace permanent in early 2022 after a successful loan spell at Selhurst Park. Since then, he has settled well in English football, scoring 30 goals in 72 Premier League matches across the past two seasons.
Given Liverpool have already invested heavily in their current trio of signings, the club may consider a swap deal to bring Mateta to Anfield while conserving their budget. Newsnow Liverpool has highlighted four potential players who could head to south London as part of such a deal.
Andy Robertson
Liverpool are also said to be interested in Crystal Palace and England defender Marc Guehi, which could see both Guehi and Mateta depart Selhurst Park this summer.
Should that happen, Palace would be left short of defensive experience and may look to negotiate Andy Robertson’s inclusion in any transfer discussions.
The Scotland international is at risk of losing his first-choice status to new arrival Milos Kerkez, who was signed from Bournemouth. At 31, Robertson might be open to a move to a Crystal Palace side that seems to be on an upward trajectory under manager Oliver Glasner.
Joe Gomez
Joe Gomez is another high-profile name who may struggle for regular game time at Anfield in the upcoming season. The centre-back was previously linked with a move to Newcastle and would significantly strengthen the Crystal Palace defence, regardless of whether Marc Guehi remains at the club or moves on.
Now aged 28, Gomez still has much to contribute at Premier League level, and a switch to Selhurst Park could prove to be a sensible move for everyone involved.
Harvey Elliott
Liverpool might persuade Crystal Palace to part ways with Jean-Philippe Mateta by including Harvey Elliott in the deal. The winger impressed during the summer’s European Under-21 Championship with England, scoring five goals in the tournament.
At 22, Elliott appears more than ready to thrive in the Premier League, provided he’s handed consistent playing time. Crystal Palace could offer him the regular platform he needs to truly flourish.
Ben Doak
Should Elliott opt to remain at Anfield and compete for a regular starting spot, Liverpool might instead offer Ben Doak to Crystal Palace as part of the proposed deal for Mateta.
The 19-year-old featured in 24 Championship matches during his loan at Middlesbrough last season and may feel ready to make his mark in the Premier League. However, breaking into Arne Slot’s first-team plans in the near future seems unlikely.
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