Newcastle United are expected to prioritize offensive reinforcements this summer as the club evaluates its forward options following an inconsistent stretch in front of goal, even after bringing two such player to Tyneside less than a year ago.
With uncertainty surrounding Nick Woltemade’s long-term role and an Yoane Wissa’s subpar form, attention has shifted toward potential alternatives with Premier League experience, as is Eddie Howe’s known preference.
According to Football Insider, Crystal Palace
striker Jean-Philippe Mateta has emerged as a player of interest. Newcastle are reportedly keeping tabs on the France international’s availability ahead of the transfer window.
Mateta, 28, scored 10 goals in 34 appearances for Palace this season despite a recent knee issue that has sidelined him. He was oh-so-close to a move to AC Milan during the winter window but failed a medical, leaving him at Selhurst Park and clearly showing both his and Palace’s willingness to move on.
Former Manchester United chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider that Mateta fits Newcastle’s recruitment profile, and that the saga is one worth keeping an eye on.
“Mateta is definitely on their radar at Newcastle,” Brown said. “It looks like he’s going to be available, Palace are willing to let him go, and there are a lot of clubs who are going to be sitting up and taking notice.
“He’s shown at Palace for a couple of years now that he can perform and score goals in the Premier League, his track record proves how good he’s been.
“He’s a France international as well, so where are they going to go to get a striker of that ilk? Especially one who is available and knows the league.
“That’s always something Newcastle look at, Eddie Howe likes to sign players who are proven in the Premier League to reduce the time it takes for them to adapt.
“Newcastle want to sign a new striker, a goalscorer, because the options they’ve got at the moment haven’t been consistent enough and have struggled.
“I don’t think Mateta is a perfect forward, there are a few concerns I have around him, but the scouting team at Newcastle will weigh up the pros and cons.”
For now, Mateta remains part of manager Oliver Glasner’s plans at Crystal Palace and has been included in their Conference League squad for the second half of the season.
