Atletico Madrid are allegedly mulling over a potential approach for a Crystal Palace star during the summer transfer window.
Diego Simeone's side are currently involved in a three-team battle for the La Liga title, helped by a 1-1 draw with Real Madrid at the weekend.
Having compiled a balanced squad at Riyadh Air Metropolitano, the Argentine may not have been in any rush to add fresh faces during the next trading period.
However, with Antoine Griezmann continuing to be heavily linked with a move to MLS, Simeone and Atletico officials are having to consider alternatives to the club legend.
As per sports journalist Rudy Galetti, who was writing on TEAMtalk, one of Palace's key men has emerged as a potential signing.
© Imago
What Palace star is on Atletico radar?
Galetti says that Jean-Philippe Mateta has caught the eye of Atletico chiefs having continued his excellent form for the Premier League side.
The 27-year-old has been outstanding for Palace for over a year, his overall record in England's top flight since the start of 2023-24 reading 26 goals and six assists from 59 appearances.
Mateta has been transformed under the guidance of Oliver Glasner, yet Palace face issues with retaining the former Mainz 05 frontman's signature.
Less than 18 months remain on his contract, Eagles officials facing a tough ask to keep Mateta at the club due to his form and the potential desire to join a bigger club.
With Mateta enjoying the best period of his career, that is not a foregone conclusion, yet it is natural to assume that he may wish to represent a Champions League-participating team.
From Palace's perspective, they also face the same scenario with Marc Guehi, who will command a bigger fee and will highly unlikely be risked becoming a free agent.
© Imago
Do Atletico need a player like Mateta?
As a result of Alexander Sorloth already bringing physicality to the Atletico forward line, it is debatable whether Simeone requires a player of a similar profile.
On the flip side, Julian Alvarez can take on more responsibility in attack should Griezmann depart, starting more games while Sorloth and Mateta rotate.
Simeone can also call upon several other versatile attackers when required, but Mateta's attributes would likely see him used on a regular basis.
Darren Plant
