Nottingham Forest express interest in Jean-Philippe Mateta

Nottingham Forest have expressed interest in signing Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta (28), with the Premier League club exploring options to strengthen their attacking line, Sky Sports reports.

Mateta has 18 months remaining on his contract at Selhurst Park, but Palace are unlikely to sanction a move unless their valuation is met and a suitable replacement can be secured. The Eagles are understood to value the forward at around £40m, a figure that has deterred previous suitors, including Juventus and Aston Villa.

Forest, currently 17th in the Premier League, just three points above the relegation zone, are seeking additional firepower despite recently completing the loan signing of Napoli striker Lorenzo Lucca. Manager Sean Dyche is keen to bolster his options in attack ahead of a crucial run of fixtures as Forest look to consolidate their top-flight status.

Relations between the two clubs were reportedly strained last summer, when Forest overtook Palace to qualify for the Europa League, adding an extra edge to their forthcoming clash at the City Ground on Sunday.

While a deal remains speculative, Forest’s pursuit of Mateta underlines their ambition to strengthen the squad in key areas. Whether Palace are willing to negotiate at a price that satisfies both parties remains to be seen.

GFN | Finn Entwistle