Barcelona have reportedly targeted Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta as a potential replacement for Robert Lewandowski, according to Fichajes.net. The 27-year-old forward recently scored a brace in Palace’s 2-0 victory over Manchester United on February 2.
Although Lewandowski has been in excellent form for Barcelona this season, netting 30 goals in 32 appearances across all competitions, the 36-year-old’s contract runs until 2026. Barcelona, eager to find a younger striker to eventually take over, believe Mateta fits the bill.
This season, the Frenchman has scored 10 goals in 24 Premier League matches and added three more in the EFL Cup.
Standing at 1.92 meters, his height makes him an ideal target man for the centre-forward role, and Barcelona hopes to secure his transfer in the summer.
Mateta, who joined Crystal Palace from Mainz 05 in 2021 and became a regular starter in 2022, has impressed with his positioning and work ethic, earning a key role at Selhurst Park. Despite his contract with Palace running until 2026, reports suggest Barcelona will find it relatively easy to sign him.
With financial constraints limiting Barcelona’s options in the transfer market, they are hopeful that signing Mateta won’t be a major hurdle. The plan would be for him to serve as Lewandowski’s understudy in the coming season, with the Polish forward unlikely to receive a contract extension. After Lewandowski’s departure, Mateta would step up as the club’s primary striker.
Currently sitting third in La Liga, four points behind leaders Real Madrid, Barcelona will be eager to strengthen their squad and challenge for the title they last won in 2022-23.