Jean-Philippe Mateta’s anticipated transfer from Crystal Palace to AC Milan fell through on Deadline Day, while Cristiano Ronaldo made headlines with his decision to strike at Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr. The football world was abuzz with these developments alongside other significant moves across Europe.
Ronaldo reportedly refused to play in Al Nassr’s league match against Al Riyadh, expressing dissatisfaction with the club’s management. Meanwhile, Liverpool secured a promising young defender, though he won’t join immediately, and Crystal Palace made strategic acquisitions to strengthen their squad.
Mateta’s Transfer Breakdown
The collapse of Mateta’s transfer to AC Milan was attributed to medical concerns. A source confirmed to AFP that Milan requested additional knee tests, which failed to provide the necessary assurances to finalize the deal. Mateta, who was initially set to join Milan at the end of the season, was excluded from Palace’s squad against Nottingham Forest in anticipation of the move.
“AC Milan requested further tests on his knee, and they did not provide the necessary assurances to finalize the transfer,” the source told AFP.
Mateta has been a crucial player for Crystal Palace, scoring 56 goals since joining the club. However, Palace’s recent form has been troubling, with a 12-game winless streak and key departures, including manager Oliver Glasner and defender Marc Guehi.
AC Milan, trailing Inter Milan in Serie A, hoped to enhance their attacking options with Mateta. Despite rumors of Juventus’ interest, no deal materialized. Palace proceeded with a club-record £48 million deal to sign Jorgen Strand Larsen from Wolves, adding competition for Mateta’s position.
Ronaldo’s Strike and Saudi Pro League Developments
Cristiano Ronaldo’s decision to strike at Al Nassr has been a major talking point. Earning approximately £500,000 a day, Ronaldo’s absence from the squad against Al Riyadh was notable. Reports suggest his dissatisfaction stems from the club’s lack of investment compared to rivals Al Hilal, Al Ahli, and Al Ittihad.
“Ronaldo feels that the PIF have been putting more money into Al Hilal, Al Ahli and Al Ittihad than they have into his club Al Nassr,” reported Sky Sports News’ Kaveh Solhekol.
Despite Ronaldo’s prolific scoring, Al Nassr has not clinched the league title during his tenure. His expectations for significant squad reinforcements in the transfer window were unmet, prompting his strike.
Elsewhere in the Saudi Pro League, Ivan Toney rejected offers from Juventus and Premier League clubs, while Karim Benzema entered negotiations with Al-Hilal. Benzema’s dissatisfaction with Al-Ittihad’s contract extension offer has fueled speculation about his future.
Liverpool’s Defensive Reinforcements
Liverpool’s acquisition of Rennes defender Jeremy Jacquet marks a strategic move to bolster their defense. Although Jacquet will not join until the season’s end, the transfer addresses Liverpool’s pressing need for defensive depth. The 20-year-old’s arrival comes as Liverpool faces a shortage of center-back options, with injuries sidelining key players.
“Jacquet is a similar profile to Konate. Can cover big spaces. Pace, Liverpool will play with a high line,” commented Jamie Carragher on Sky Sports.
The Reds’ focus on future-proofing their defense is evident, with Jacquet expected to complement Virgil van Dijk and potentially replace Ibrahima Konate, who may depart.
Other Notable Transfers
Chelsea recalled Mamadou Sarr from his loan at Strasbourg, reuniting him with manager Liam Rosenior. Meanwhile, Axel Disasi is set for a medical at West Ham, and Manchester City’s Kalvin Phillips joined Sheffield United on loan. Sunderland’s Simon Adingra moved to Monaco, further highlighting the busy transfer activity.
As the transfer window closes, clubs across Europe and beyond have made strategic moves to strengthen their squads. The implications of these transfers will unfold in the coming months, shaping the competitive landscape of various leagues.
