While much of the transfer spotlight has focused on Alexander Isak, Liverpool are also seriously pursuing another Premier League striker as a backup option to the Newcastle star.
On Tuesday, trusted journalist David Ornstein reported via *The Athletic* that Liverpool had approached Newcastle regarding Isak, although no official bid has been made for the £120 million-rated forward.
Meanwhile, reports from France earlier this week indicated that the Reds have also opened talks over a possible deal for Crystal Palace’s Jean-Philippe Mateta. Fresh updates now provide deeper insight into that pursuit.
### Liverpool Ready €50–€60M Bid for Mateta
Sources close to *Empire of the Kop* reveal that Liverpool representatives recently met Mateta and his agent in Paris. The club has prepared a formal bid in the region of €50 million to €60 million (£43.3m–£52m) for the French striker.
However, Liverpool face competition. Both AC Milan and Manchester United are monitoring the situation, with Milan potentially holding an edge due to Mateta’s reported interest in a move to Serie A.
Crystal Palace have been in talks with the 28-year-old over a new contract since December, but little progress has been made, increasing the likelihood of a summer departure with just two years left on his current deal.
### Is Mateta a Viable Plan B to Isak?
While Isak remains Liverpool’s top attacking target, Mateta is emerging as a realistic alternative should that deal fall through.
Jamie Carragher has previously praised Mateta’s “outstanding” finishing and stated he’s capable of playing at Champions League level (*Sky Sports*). With 30 Premier League goals across the last two seasons, his scoring record supports that claim.
Though Liverpool are prepared to move forward with an offer, the deal is far from advanced.
Mark Brus, editor-in-chief of *CaughtOffside*, told *Empire of the Kop*:
> “Mateta is definitely one of the names on Liverpool’s list of striker targets, but nothing is close yet. There’s also talk of him possibly renewing with Crystal Palace, despite interest from Aston Villa and Marseille.”
It appears Liverpool sporting director Richard Hughes is keeping options open, with Mateta serving as a contingency if a deal for Isak doesn’t materialize.
Should developments occur soon, the upcoming Community Shield clash between Liverpool and Crystal Palace on August 10 could take on added intrigue.
