Tottenham linked with Jean-Philippe Mateta as striker continues to prove his goalscoring credentials
Tottenham Hotspur have been linked with a possible move for Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta, with reports suggesting Spurs were among the clubs approached about a potential deal during the summer window.
The interest comes at a time when Tottenham are looking for more firepower in attack under Roberto De Zerbi. Mateta is the type of forward who offers a physical presence in the box, while his recent goalscoring record has made him an increasingly prominent name in transfer discussions.
The French striker reached a significant milestone at the end of last season, scoring his 50th Premier League goal when he came off the bench against Arsenal on the final day of the 2025/26 campaign.
Mateta’s Palace future has also been surrounded by uncertainty. He has been trying to secure a move away from Selhurst Park and was involved in a dispute over the final year of his contract. A Premier League tribunal and FIFA rejected his attempts to challenge the validity of the extension, leaving him contracted to Palace.
Tottenham were subsequently reported to have been contacted over a possible move. TEAMtalk reported that Mateta’s representatives approached Spurs, while also stating that the North London club retained long-term admiration for the striker.
There was, however, conflicting information surrounding the story. Sky Sports’ Michael Bridge was reported as saying Tottenham had no interest in Mateta, meaning supporters should treat the transfer links as speculation rather than evidence that a deal is imminent.
Still, the numbers explain why Mateta continues to attract attention. Palace’s official report confirmed that his late goal against Arsenal was his 50th Premier League strike, while his overall 2025/26 campaign included goals in the Premier League and Europe.
For Tottenham, the attraction would be straightforward: a proven Premier League striker with experience of leading the line, capable of competing physically with defenders and providing another source of goals.
With Spurs looking to improve their attacking output, Mateta’s name is therefore one worth watching. Whether Tottenham turn reported interest into a concrete January move remains uncertain, but the striker’s continued goalscoring record has ensured that the link is unlikely to disappear quickly.
