Verdict arrives on Liverpool’s chances of signing Jean-Philippe Mateta as ‘back-up’ role suggested

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Jean-Philippe Mateta has recently been linked with a move to Liverpool in their search for a new number nine.

One of the main areas that Arne Slot needed to upgrade this summer was his striker due to the lack of final third form that Darwin Nunez showed last term.

Indeed, the former Benfica man did manage to net seven goals, but when others such as Cody Gakpo and Luis Diaz scored more than 15, it’s clear that a change was needed.

And, even though Nunez’s move to Napoli is now off the table, that hasn’t stopped Slot from exploring the market for his next focal point.

David Lynch believes Jean-Philippe Mateta could be brought in as a backup for Liverpool

At the moment, Liverpool are on the cusp of finalising the transfer of Hugo Ekitike from Eintracht Frankfurt.

And, even though the young Frenchman is likely to come in as the Reds’ first-choice number nine, if both Diaz and Nunez end up exiting Anfield this summer, they’ll be rather light up top.

And now, while speaking to Sports Mole, journalist David Lynch has shared his thoughts on the potential of Mateta making the move to Liverpool this summer.

“I’d take them with a big pinch of salt to be honest [the links to Mateta],” Lynch said.

Later in the podcast, the journalist also added the following: “It doesn’t seem very Liverpool to me, he’s 28, he’s probably reaching the peak of his powers now, he’d be looking for a big pay rise, I don’t know, it doesn’t seem like one I can see Liverpool going for really unless they needed someone in a back-up role.”

Jean-Philippe Mateta could be a smart signing for Liverpool

Although Mateta’s form in the 2024-25 season wasn’t as impressive as the 2023-24 campaign, there’s still a more than solid striker within him.

Over the last two years, the 28-year-old has bagged 36 goals across all competitions, and although he may not be the best striker in the Premier League, he’d be a more than solid back-up option.

That’s because he knows how to find the back of the net, and he can also create something out of nothing.

Of course, only time will tell what the future has in store, but if the Reds need a back-up striker before the 2025-26 season gets underway, Mateta could end up being their man.

That is, especially since he’ll likely have half an eye on the 2026 France World Cup squad.