Reports indicate that Nottingham Forest are prepared to offer £35 million for Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta. Forest is looking for attacking reinforcements with Chris Wood currently sidelined. Palace, who recently sold Marc Guehi, may be open to a deal if their £40 million valuation is met. Juventus and Aston Villa have previously expressed interest but were deterred by the asking price.

The potential transfer is complicated by the history between the two clubs. Forest replaced Palace in the Europa League last season. Mateta, who has 18 months left on his contract, has expressed a desire to leave Palace. The two teams are set to face each other, adding extra intrigue to the situation. A move to Forest would be a step down for the player.

Palace are currently only three points above Forest in the Premier League. Losing Mateta would be a blow for Palace, who have already seen key players depart. The former Crystal Palace striker Clinton Morrison has questioned the move, citing Forest's lack of Champions League football and the competition Mateta would face there.

With the transfer window open, the deal could be finalized soon. Forest's willingness to spend big on a striker suggests a desire to climb the Premier League standings. The upcoming match between the two clubs could also influence the deal. All eyes will be on Mateta and his potential new club.