Aston Villa receive major boost in pursuit of Crystal Palace star

Aston Villa’s hopes of signing Crystal Palace forward Jean-Philippe Mateta have been significantly boosted as contract talks between the player and his current club have reportedly broken down.

According to the latest report from Express Sport, negotiations over a new deal have stalled for the second time, as the French striker and Palace failed to reach an agreement on wages and a release clause.

Mateta, who has been a key player for Crystal Palace since joining from FC Mainz, was...