Liverpool Eyeing Jean-Philippe Mateta as Darwin Nunez Exit Rumours Grow

Reds open talks with Crystal Palace striker as Arne Slot weighs life after Darwin Nunez

A new era is unfolding at Anfield under Arne Slot, and it might just involve a fresh face leading the line. With Darwin Nunez’s future at Liverpool under increasing scrutiny this summer, reports suggest the Merseyside club are wasting no time in lining up a potential replacement. According to Foot Mercato, Liverpool have entered preliminary talks with Jean-Philippe Mateta’s representatives, raising eyebrows and expectations in equal measure.

The Crystal Palace striker has emerged as a surprise candidate to take over striking duties, should Nunez leave the club in the coming weeks. Mateta is reportedly open to a move, and Liverpool have already held discussions with his agent in Paris to gauge his interest and the financial terms of a deal.

Why Mateta? Liverpool’s Quiet Calculations

Jean Philippe Mateta Crystal Palace 2025 –Nunez

At first glance, Mateta might not seem like a typical Liverpool signing—especially in the post-Jürgen Klopp era. But a deeper dive reveals a striker on the rise. The Frenchman enjoyed his best season yet in English football last term, scoring 14 Premier League goals and establishing himself as a key figure in Oliver Glasner’s rejuvenated Crystal Palace attack.

Standing at 6’4″, Mateta offers a physical presence up front that few Premier League strikers can match, but it’s his evolution as a more complete forward—strong hold-up play, intelligent movement, and improved finishing—that has reportedly caught Liverpool’s eye.

His current market value is estimated around €60 million (£52m), and while that price might seem steep for a player with just one standout campaign, Liverpool’s interest suggests they see Mateta as more than just a backup plan. With Napoli circling around Darwin Nunez and AC Milan also reportedly monitoring Mateta, Liverpool may need to act decisively if they want to land their man.

Darwin Nunez Future Still Unresolved

Nunez’s time at Anfield has been a mixed bag—flashes of brilliance punctuated by inconsistency in front of goal. While he netted 11 times in the Premier League last season, questions have remained about his composure in big moments and fit within Liverpool’s evolving tactical system.

Napoli’s interest in the Uruguayan striker has lingered throughout the summer, but the Serie A club has yet to meet Liverpool’s asking price. Until they do, the Reds appear to be keeping their options open, performing due diligence on several targets, Mateta chief among them.

There’s also a sense that Liverpool are preparing for a potential domino effect. Should Napoli trigger a move for Nunez, Liverpool would be well-positioned to immediately make their move for Mateta.

Arne Slot’s Influence and the Need for Reinforcement

Arne Slot is beginning to leave his imprint on Liverpool’s squad and philosophy. Known for his fluid, attacking brand of football at Feyenoord, Slot will be looking for forwards who can press aggressively, drop deep to link play, and operate with clinical efficiency in front of goal. Mateta, based on his recent performances, fits that bill more than he did a year ago.

What makes this even more pressing is the recent loss of Diogo Jota, who tragically passed away this summer—a devastating blow to the football world and Liverpool fans in particular. It has left both an emotional and tactical void in the front line, further increasing the urgency to bolster attacking options.

With Mohamed Salah heading into what may be his final season at Anfield, Luis Diaz drawing interest from European giants, and Cody Gakpo still finding his consistency, the need for a reliable central striker has never been greater. Whether Mateta is that solution remains to be seen—but the conversation has begun.

What Mateta Could Bring to Anfield

Mateta is not just a goalscorer—he’s a player who thrives on confidence and rhythm. At Palace, he proved that with regular starts and a manager who believes in him, he can deliver. He ended the 2024-25 campaign as one of the most in-form forwards in the Premier League, and his ability to score in a variety of ways—headers, volleys, and composed finishes—makes him an intriguing prospect for Liverpool.

He also has a chip on his shoulder. After years of being seen as a fringe player in England, this could be his breakout moment on a bigger stage. At 27, he’s entering his prime and would bring a different dimension to a Liverpool attack that has sometimes lacked physicality and directness.

And with Arne Slot known for his willingness to work closely with players and develop their technical skills, Mateta might well find a manager who can elevate him even further.

What Comes Next?

Liverpool are currently preparing for their upcoming pre-season schedule, with a friendly against AC Milan set for July 26. Whether Nunez or Mateta are involved in that fixture remains to be seen, but it’s clear that the transfer wheels are turning at Anfield.

For Liverpool fans, the coming weeks will be critical. Will Nunez stay and fight for his place under Slot, or will a big-money offer from Italy open the door to a new striker arriving on Merseyside?

If it’s the latter, Mateta’s name won’t come as a surprise anymore. He may not have the glamour of other European No.9s, but Liverpool seem to believe he has the substance.

And in the post-Klopp era, substance might be exactly what the Reds need.