Palace trigger contract extension option to extend Mateta’s Selhurst Park stay

Crystal Palace have activated a clause in Jean-Philippe Mateta’s contract which extends the French striker’s stay in SE25 until the end of the 2026-27 season.

The 27-year-old forward has scored four goals and claimed one assist in 17 Premier League matches this season.

Mateta’s form for the Eagles has led to interest from clubs abroad.

But Palace have remained determined to hold on to the French international, who has netted seven times in all competitions in the current campaign.

Mateta scored the opening goal in Palace’s EFL Cup defeat at Arsenal last week.

He finished last season in red-hot form with 11 goals in the last 10 matches. That return saw him feature for France at the Olympics where they won a silver medal.

Mateta signed for Palace from Mainz 05 in January 202, initially on a 18-month loan deal.

PICTURE: KEITH GILLARD