Report: Liverpool Eyeing 19-Goal Premier League Forward in Surprise Transfer Move | OneFootball

Liverpool Eyeing Premier League Forward in Potential Surprise Transfer

Liverpool are reportedly considering a move for Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta, fuelled by his impressive form in the Premier League. Spanish publication Fichajes highlighted that Mateta’s recent performances have caught the attention of several top European clubs, with Liverpool particularly keen on the striker. With 19 goals in the previous season and a promising start this term, Mateta’s demand for a better contract at Palace has led to stalled negotiations, potentially opening the door for a switch to Anfield.

Analysing Liverpool’s Striking Options

Arne Slot, who took over the managerial reins at Liverpool in May 2024, is currently assessing his forward line, which includes talents like Diogo Jota and Darwin Nunez. While the inclusion of Mateta could shake things up, it raises the question of whether he’s the right fit for Liverpool’s ambitions to clinch major titles like the Premier League and Champions League. Mateta’s robust presence and Premier League experience are significant, yet there’s a debate to be had about whether he meets the elite standards Liverpool aspires to.

Photo: IMAGO

Financial Implications of the Mateta Deal

Jean-Philippe Mateta, now nearing the final year of his contract, could be available at a reduced fee, though Crystal Palace is likely to demand a substantial sum to part with their star, especially to a league rival. Liverpool could face a decision: invest in Mateta or look elsewhere, perhaps targeting a younger prospect with higher potential for a more reasonable fee. Names like Omar Marmoush of Eintracht Frankfurt have surfaced, suggesting Liverpool has multiple options under consideration.

Liverpool’s Broader Transfer Strategy

Aside from the forward line, Liverpool’s transfer strategy appears to be broad, with potential reinforcements in various positions. Notably, the club is linked with Nottingham Forest defender Murillo as they plan to bolster their defence, regardless of Virgil van Dijk’s decision on his future. Additionally, Liverpool is keeping an eye on Borussia Dortmund’s Karim Adeyemi, viewing him as a possible successor to Mo Salah.

Statistical Analysis by Anfield Index: Jean-Philippe Mateta’s Impressive Form

Mateta’s Attacking Prowess

Jean-Philippe Mateta’s performance data, courtesy of Fbref, provides a fascinating insight into why he’s catching the eye of top Premier League clubs. The graphic shows Mateta’s percentile ranking compared to other forwards over the last 365 days—a period during which he’s amassed 2477 minutes of playtime. His non-penalty goals (NPG) and expected non-penalty goals (xNP) are notably high, with his ranking in the 83rd percentile for NPG showcasing his finishing ability. This figure suggests that Mateta is not only efficient but also consistently converts opportunities, a trait that would be valuable to any team aiming for success.

Excellence in Possession

In possession, Mateta demonstrates solid capabilities, which are crucial for a striker operating in high-pressure situations. His progressive passes and carries, ranked in the 63rd and 73rd percentiles respectively, indicate his ability to drive forward and create play. These metrics highlight his skill in advancing the ball and contributing to the build-up play, suggesting he could integrate well into a system that values forwards who can participate in all phases of play.

Defensive Contributions and Physicality

Defensively, Mateta also offers more than what’s typically expected from a forward. His percentile for blocks is in the high 83rd, underscoring his willingness to commit to defensive duties—an attribute that would endear him to managers who prefer forwards to take an active role in pressing and defending from the front. Furthermore, his aerial duels won, positioned in the 44th percentile, though not outstanding, are respectable for a forward, providing an additional layer of utility in both offensive and defensive scenarios.

Jean-Philippe Mateta’s statistical profile from Fbref paints a picture of a well-rounded forward who could offer more than just goals, making him an appealing prospect for clubs looking to strengthen their attacking options. His performance data and stats reveal a player ready to make an impact in the Premier League’s challenging environment.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

From a Liverpool supporter’s perspective, the interest in Jean-Philippe Mateta might raise some eyebrows. While his goal-scoring record at Palace is commendable, his ability to lead Liverpool to silverware is questionable. Given the high standards expected at Liverpool, especially in the post-Klopp era under Arne Slot, supporters might prefer targeting a striker whose credentials align more closely with the top-tier demands of European football.

Moreover, the financial aspect cannot be ignored. Spending a hefty fee on Mateta, who may not be a guaranteed upgrade over the current options, might seem imprudent. Liverpool should perhaps focus on nurturing existing talents like Jota and Nunez or scouting younger, more dynamic forwards who can offer longevity and a higher ceiling of potential. The suggestion of looking at talents like Marmoush or even venturing into different markets might be a more strategic and economically sensible approach in the long run.

In conclusion, while Mateta’s raw abilities are clear, his signing would be a gamble. It might be more prudent for Liverpool to pursue a strategy that balances immediate impact with future potential, ensuring the club remains competitive on all fronts without compromising its financial stability.