The January transfer window is reaching its boiling point, and a high-stakes battle is brewing between two of the Premier League’s most ambitious clubs. Newcastle United, backed by the financial power of the Public Investment Fund (PIF), is reportedly preparing a late-window move to snatch Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta right from under the nose of Tottenham Hotspur.
This strategic “swoop” is not just about adding a player; it is a tactical maneuver that forces Tottenham manager Thomas Frank into a difficult corner as the clock ticks toward the deadline.
Newcastle’s pursuit of a new number nine stems from a clear lack of depth in Eddie Howe’s attacking ranks. While summer signing Nick Woltemade has performed admirably, finding the net nine times and providing four assists in 31 appearances, the supporting cast has struggled.
Yoane Wissa has been plagued by persistent injury issues, limiting him to a mere two starts in the current Premier League campaign. Meanwhile, young Danish forward William Osula is still viewed as a project for the future, having seen only 213 minutes of action on the pitch this season.
To secure a top-four finish and maintain their upward trajectory, Howe knows he needs a proven goalscorer who can hit the ground running.
| Newcastle United Striker Depth (25/26) | Apps | Goals | Minutes Played |
| Nick Woltemade | 31 | 9 | 2,140 |
| Yoane Wissa | 8 | 1 | 295 |
| William Osula | 12 | 0 | 213 |
Mateta, the 28-year-old France international, has emerged as the perfect candidate. His physicality and recent form at Selhurst Park have made him one of the most talked-about players this month.
However, Newcastle is far from the only suitor. Tottenham has been tracking the striker for weeks as Thomas Frank looks to solve his own goalscoring woes. With Richarlison frequently sidelined, Spurs are desperate for a reliable partner or backup for Dominic Solanke.
Yet, Tottenham’s move for Mateta is currently stuck in a stalemate, as it reportedly depends on the club’s ability to terminate Randal Kolo Muani’s loan deal from Juventus early. Newcastle’s sudden entry into the race puts immense pressure on Spurs to act now or risk losing their primary target to a direct rival.
The price tag for such a pivotal mid-season move is substantial. Crystal Palace is reportedly holding firm on a valuation of roughly £40 million. While Mateta has expressed a clear desire to seek a new challenge away from South London, the Eagles are in no rush to sell unless their financial demands are met in full.
This valuation has also alerted Chelsea, who have reportedly made contact with the player’s representatives. The Blues, fresh off their success in the UEFA Conference League, are looking to add experienced depth to their front line and see Mateta as a cost-effective way to guarantee Premier League goals.
The competition doesn’t stop in London or the North East. Italian giants Juventus have already tested the waters with several offers, including a “loan-to-buy” structure. While Palace rejected these initial bids, the Turin club remains in the shadows, waiting for the right moment to strike if a Premier League move fails to materialize.
Even Everton has voiced their interest, though the Toffees are in a position where they must sell Beto before they can legally register a new high-earner like Mateta.
| Suitor Status | Interest Level | Current Obstacle |
| Newcastle United | High | Managing PIF budget vs. FFP |
| Tottenham Hotspur | Very High | Needs to exit Kolo Muani first |
| Chelsea | Medium | Evaluating multiple targets |
| Juventus | High | Preference for loan deals |
| Everton | Low | Must sell players first |
Beyond the striker saga, the transfer web between these clubs continues to grow more complex. Tottenham is currently closing in on a deal for Liverpool legend Andy Robertson to shore up their defense.
However, reports suggest that Liverpool may use this interest to demand a “first refusal” or a potential future deal for Spurs defender Micky van de Ven. Additionally, both Newcastle and Tottenham are currently locked in a three-way battle with Aston Villa for a young Turkish “gem” who is considered one of the brightest prospects in European football.
As the final hours of the January window approach, the focus remains firmly on Mateta. For Newcastle, signing the Frenchman would be a massive statement of intent, proving they have the pull to beat established “Big Six” clubs to elite talent.
For Tottenham, losing out to the Magpies would be a significant blow to Thomas Frank’s plans for the second half of the season. With Mateta eager for a change and multiple clubs ready to spend, the “swoop” from Tyneside might just be the first domino to fall in a chaotic deadline day.
