🚨 Just In: Aston Villa have been given the green light to sign a Premier League-proven striker for £25m, as the player tells his club he wants to leave.

Aston Villa could make one final move for a striker before the transfer deadline, with Crystal Palace reportedly prepared to consider an improved £25 million offer for Jean-Philippe Mateta.

Unai Emery’s side have already brought in Nicolas Jackson from Chelsea, but Villa remain keen to strengthen their attacking options after a major overhaul this summer.

Ollie Watkins has completed his move to Al-Hilal, while Tammy Abraham’s future is also uncertain.

That could leave Jackson as Villa’s only established senior striker, increasing the pressure on the club to find another option.

According to Football Insider, Palace have indicated that an offer of around £25m could be enough to convince them to sell Mateta.

Villa have already had a bid rejected, but there is growing belief that an improved proposal could change the situation.

The 29-year-old is reportedly open to leaving Selhurst Park, while his contract situation could give Villa encouragement as Tuesday’s deadline approaches.

Mateta would also provide something different to Jackson. The French forward offers physical strength, aerial ability and proven Premier League experience, while Jackson brings pace and movement.

With Villa facing another demanding campaign that includes Champions League football, having two quality forwards would give Emery greater flexibility and reduce the risk of relying too heavily on one striker.

At £25m, Mateta could represent a sensible investment, provided Villa avoid overpaying simply because the deadline is approaching.