Jean-Philippe Mateta shares cryptic social media post after Crystal Palace reveal transfer stance

Jean-Philippe Mateta subtly expressed his feelings as his transfer away from Crystal Palace stutters to a conclusion.

The French striker took to social media on Saturday to share his thoughts as he plots a way out of Selhurst Park before Monday’s transfer deadline.

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The 28-year-old posted an emoji signalling his frustration to his Instagram account with his impending move to AC Milan yet to be completed.

Mateta’s post comes after he was informed by Palace he can only go to Milan if the English club secures a replacement.

talkSPORT understands that AC Milan feel they have an agreement in principal subject to Palace getting a replacement.

Has Mateta played his last game for Palace?

Amid the swirling speculation, Palace boss Oliver Glasner confirmed Mateta would not feature on Sunday against Nottingham Forest but it was not due to the constant links for the striker.

“It’s nothing to do with the transfers, he is just not in the right place and doesn’t feel in the right place to play,” Glasner said on Friday.

“We have to protect the team and protect him, he will not travel with us to Nottingham.

Glasner added: “Again, there is so much noise, so much speculation, so many things going on.

“We need every single player at their best and he isn’t at his best right now with all the noise that happens.

“It can be football noise, but if someone has private issues where they can’t focus on football, then it makes no sense to play.

“He can’t help the team and perform at his top level. We decided it is better not to play him. We have to prepare if something happens.”

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Who has been in the mix for Mateta?

Mateta has made no secret of his desire to seek pastures new, but rather than hold out until his contract expires in 2027, the striker informed Palace officials he wants a move in January.

Forest had tabled a £35million bid for the Frenchman, although the deal has not progressed beyond that.

talkSPORT understands Forest’s bid falls slightly short of Palace’s valuation, which stands at £40m.

Juventus also held discussions with the south London club over a potential move for Mateta.

However, the Italian giants walked away from the table after learning of Palace’s requested transfer fee.

Mateta was considered by Premier League high-flyers Aston Villa as well, but the Midlands club instead opted for Tammy Abraham.

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Who could replace Mateta?

Although Mateta looms as a major outgoing for Palace this January, the Eagles have worked hard to bring in players.

Palace snapped up versatile forward Evann Guessand on loan from Villa for the remainder of the season and will have the option to make it permanent.

The south London outfit has also been heavily linked with a play for Wolves striker Jorgen Strand Larsen.

Wolves had expected Palace to submit a formal offer of £45m rising to £50m following positive verbal talks, but the deal has not progressed.

However, should Palace get a deal done, it would mark the second time Palace have smashed their club transfer record in January having already signed Brennan Johnson for £35m from Spurs.