Mateta omitted from Palace squad to face Forest

Jean-Philippe Mateta is absent from Crystal Palace's lineup for the upcoming away match against Nottingham Forest on Sunday, with reports suggesting the French forward is seeking a departure from Selhurst Park.

AC Milan appear to be the leading contenders to acquire the 28 year old, who has also attracted interest from Forest, ahead of the transfer deadline on Monday.

"I can confirm that JP will not feature in the matchday squad," stated Palace manager Oliver Glasner during his press briefing on Friday.

"At present, this has nothing to do with any transfers, he simply is not in the proper mindset to perform. In order to safeguard both the team and him, he will not be making the journey to Nottingham.

"Additionally, I can confirm that no fresh signing will join the matchday squad."

Reports indicate that Palace have submitted an offer for Wolves forward Jorgen Strand Larsen, potentially as a straight swap for Mateta.

"The club is putting in significant effort, yet no final call has been made," Glasner remarked. 

"To put it plainly, JP might remain with Crystal Palace come February 2, or he could depart and we bring in a new forward.

"From my perspective, those represent the two possibilities under consideration at the moment."

Glasner had previously announced this month his intention to depart from the south London outfit once the season concludes.

Palace, fresh off their FA Cup triumph from the previous campaign, have failed to secure a victory in their last 11 outings across various competitions, positioning them eight points above the drop zone.

They also endured a shocking FA Cup third round exit against sixth tier side Macclesfield.