'He doesn't want to be there' - Expert: Crystal Palace have a new 'problem' as sale now 'likely'

Jean-Philippe Mateta is now considered “likely” to leave Crystal Palace before the 2 February transfer deadline as he continues to push for a move.

The 28-year-old’s agent has been in contact with a number of clubs over a mid-season deal, with Aston Villa joined by the likes of Nottingham Forest and Tottenham.

Former Man United chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider that Mateta “has made his mind up” about leaving South London and is no longer focused on the club.

As a result, all parties may decide the best course of action is to allow him to leave, although Palace are sticking to their guns regarding his asking price.

Football Insider first revealed on 26 January that Crystal Palace will demand £40million for Mateta, particularly if they are selling to Premier League rivals.

Jean-Philippe Mateta edges towards Crystal Palace exit

Brown told Football Insider on 28 January that Crystal Palace will accept offers for Mateta late in the window and are prepared for him to leave.

The Eagles are already lining up potential replacements, and with the striker’s recent form solidifying claims his head is not in the right place, they are prepared to move him on.

“The Mateta situation is a problem for Crystal Palace,” Brown told Football Insider.

“To a large extent, it’s been taken out of their hands because he’s made it clear he wants to leave, and he’s not happy at the club any more.

“He doesn’t want to be there, and I’ve heard whispers for a while that he’s been testing the waters about a potential move away.

“His agent has been speaking to a number of clubs, that’s why you hear Nottingham Forest, Aston Villa, Tottenham, whoever else all being linked now.

“I would say it’s probably more likely than not that he will leave before the window closes.

“He hasn’t been performing to the levels he has shown before, Crystal Palace are aware of that, and it’s likely because he’s not focused on the club any more.

“It’s a concern for them as it would be for any club if you have a player, and an important one, who isn’t at his best because of the speculation around him.

“If I’m right and that is the case, then the only solution is for him to move on, even if it’s not necessarily what Palace will have wanted to do, and they’ll have to bring in a replacement.

“I expect any deal will only be done on Palace’s terms, but he’s making it difficult for them both on and off the pitch, so we’ll see what happens.”

Crystal Palace accelerate Jorgen Strand Larsen talks

Another sign that Mateta may soon be leaving Selhurst Park is the Eagles’ increased attempts to sign Wolves striker Jorgen Strand Larsen this month.

Football Insider first revealed on 23 January that Crystal Palace want to sign Strand Larsen and have identified him as their first-choice striker target.

Now, reports have claimed the Eagles have made an increased bid for the forward to get ahead of the likes of Leeds United in the race for his signature.

Palace sporting director Matt Hobbs has strong connections at Wolves after his time there and is believed to be leading the pursuit of Strand Larsen.

Football Insider revealed on 10 January that Wolves will demand £40million for Strand Larsen this month and are reluctant to sell despite the growing interest.

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The post 'He doesn't want to be there' - Expert: Crystal Palace have a new 'problem' as sale now 'likely' appeared first on Football Insider.