Spurs Accelerate Striker Search Ahead of Crucial January Window.
Tottenham Hotspur are gearing up for a busy January transfer window, and a new name has now surged to the top of their striker shortlist: Jean-Philippe Mateta, Crystal Palace’s in-form forward. With uncertainty surrounding the Frenchman’s future at Selhurst Park, Spurs are preparing a potential bid to bring him to North London.
Spurs Want a New Striker Despite Richarlison’s Resurgence
Thomas Frank eased pressure with a much-needed 2–0 win over Brentford at the weekend, the club’s first home Premier League victory since the opening day. Spurs controlled the match from start to finish, limiting the visitors in every way. At the same time, Richarlison continued his impressive run by netting his sixth league goal of the season.
But while Richarlison has rediscovered his scoring touch, the rest of Tottenham’s centre-forward options have struggled. Randal Kolo Muani is still looking for his first Premier League goal, and Dominic Solanke has barely featured due to a lingering ankle injury. With goals drying up elsewhere in attack, Frank is keen to add another reliable scorer in January, especially one proven in the Premier League.
Mateta Emerges as a Serious Target
Tottenham are now readying a January move for Jean-Philippe Mateta, whose contract situation at Palace has raised eyebrows. Negotiations over a new deal have stalled, and with his current contract running until 2027, Palace are aware that his value could decline if they don’t act soon. (via Football Insider)
Reports claim Palace would seek around £44 million for the striker; a figure Spurs may now be willing to test given their need for immediate attacking reinforcements.
Journalist Pete O’Rourke recently noted on his Podcast that Palace are increasingly likely to consider a sale if Mateta won’t extend his contract, suggesting January could be the ideal time for Tottenham to take advantage. (h/t The Football Insider’s Inside Track Podcast):
“He’s under contract until 2027 but if he’s not going to sign a new deal by next summer, you would imagine Palace would be more increasingly open to selling Mateta to get a fee for him, rather than potentially letting him run down his contract. So, that could open the door for Spurs to make a move for the Frenchman.“
“Amazing” Form Has Put Big Clubs on Alert
Mateta has been praised widely this season, including being labelled “amazing” by Palace boss Oliver Glasner. The 28-year-old has scored nine goals in 23 matches across all competitions, alongside two assists, building on an already strong record in England’s top flight.
Across the seasons, Mateta has amassed 45 Premier League goals for Palace, proving himself as one of the division’s most consistent scorers outside the top six. His strength, work rate, and penalty-box presence make him an attractive fit for Frank’s system, which relies heavily on physical forwards capable of linking play and finishing decisively.
Even Tottenham’s manager has admired him before. Frank previously praised Mateta after a standout performance against Brentford, calling him “very hard to handle.” That kind of endorsement adds further credibility to Spurs’ growing interest.
A January Opportunity Spurs Can’t Ignore
With talks at Palace going nowhere and Spurs hungry for more firepower, Mateta represents a compelling mid-season addition. Given his proven Premier League pedigree, strong form, and admiration from Frank himself, Tottenham look well-positioned to test Palace’s resolve.
If the Eagles decide to cash in, Spurs may finally get the powerful, reliable No. 9 they’re searching for.
