Liverpool Eyeing Mateta as Alternative to Isak: Transfer Latest

Liverpool’s summer transfer activity is heating up, with fresh reports indicating they are not solely fixated on Newcastle’s Alexander Isak. As reported by Empire of the Kop, the Reds have also set their sights on Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta, preparing an offer in the region of €50m-€60m (£43.3m-£52m) after holding a meeting with the player and his agent in Paris.

This adds an interesting layer to the Reds’ striker hunt, with manager Arne Slot keen to bolster his forward line ahead of his second season in charge, following a stunning Premier League title win in his debut campaign.

Mateta’s Scoring Record Sparks Liverpool Interest

Isak remains Liverpool’s top target, as confirmed by David Ornstein earlier this week, but with Newcastle valuing him at a hefty £120m, the Merseysiders are wisely keeping options open.

Jean-Philippe Mateta’s profile is hard to ignore. With 30 Premier League goals over the last two seasons, the Frenchman has established himself as one of the division’s most consistent marksmen. Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher has praised Mateta’s “outstanding” finishing, noting he has the ability to step up to Champions League level.

The fact that AC Milan and Manchester United are also circling underlines the competition Liverpool face. Mateta’s apparent openness to a Serie A switch gives Milan a glimmer of hope, but Liverpool’s Champions League pedigree and domestic success surely make them an appealing destination.

Contract Stalemate at Palace Opens Door

According to Empire of the Kop, Crystal Palace have been attempting to secure Mateta to a new contract since December, but talks have stalled. With just two years left on his current deal, Palace could now be tempted to cash in.

CaughtOffside’s Mark Brus told Empire of the Kop, “Jean-Philippe Mateta has been linked as one of the names on Liverpool’s list of targets up front this summer, but my understanding is that nothing is advanced with that right now.”

It’s clear Liverpool’s recruitment team, led by Richard Hughes, are keeping their cards close. Whether Palace will be receptive to the offer remains uncertain, but time is of the essence as the season’s curtain-raiser looms.

Community Shield Could Add Drama to Transfer Talks

Liverpool and Palace are set to meet in the Community Shield on 10 August, and should negotiations progress, that fixture could carry a fascinating subplot. Fans and pundits alike will be watching closely to see if Mateta features or if his future lies away from Selhurst Park.

Liverpool’s approach appears methodical: chase the marquee target in Isak, but ensure contingency plans are in place. If Slot secures a proven Premier League scorer like Mateta, it could give the Reds the depth needed to challenge on all fronts again.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

From a fan’s perspective, this report throws up plenty to think about. Isak has been the dream signing for many, a forward who could lead the line for years. But with a £120m price tag, it’s wise that Liverpool are exploring other options.

Jean-Philippe Mateta may not have the same hype, but his record speaks for itself. Scoring 30 goals across two seasons at Palace, where service is limited compared to Liverpool, is impressive. Jamie Carragher’s praise of his “outstanding” finishing should not be taken lightly.

Arne Slot’s success last season came with smart squad rotation and tactical flexibility. Bringing in a striker like Mateta gives Liverpool a different profile: a physical, penalty-box presence who can complement the likes of Mohamed Salah, Darwin Núñez and Luis Díaz.

Of course, there are concerns. Mateta has no Champions League experience, and at 28, he would be more of a short-to-medium-term solution. But as a Plan B, it feels like a clever move. Plus, pushing Newcastle down on Isak’s price through public alternatives might also be part of Liverpool’s play.

As the Community Shield nears, this transfer story has all the ingredients for drama. If Mateta does end up at Anfield, fans should be intrigued rather than underwhelmed.