Sources: Crystal Palace could accept new Jean-Philippe Mateta offer

Palace weighing January sale of Mateta, who refuses new contract; AC Milan and Aston Villa among interested clubs.

Jean-Philippe Mateta will not sign a new contract at Crystal Palace and is assessing options to leave, with his deal expiring at the end of the season. The 29-year-old France international has attracted interest from multiple clubs including AC Milan and Aston Villa, and Palace have received several offers in recent months. The club must now decide whether to cash in during January or retain him for the remainder of the season to avoid a relegation battle. Mateta came close to joining AC Milan last January before that move collapsed. Manchester United are also monitoring the situation, though signing a striker is not a priority unless Joshua Zirkzee departs. Palace view Mateta as crucial to their immediate plans under Pierre Sage, but the financial incentive of selling a player who will leave on a free transfer at season's end presents a difficult decision.