Crystal Palace have triggered an option to extend Jean-Philippe Mateta’s contract, keeping the French striker at Selhurst Park for an additional two and a half years. Mateta, 27, was set to enter the final 18 months of his contract at the start of 2024, with his current deal due to expire in June 2026.
Sources familiar with the agreement confirmed to BBC Sport that Palace have opted to secure Mateta’s future with the club. Although the club has yet to officially announce the news, this move highlights Palace’s commitment to the forward, whose form has impressed in recent months.
Mateta’s contract talks with the club had been ongoing, driven by his strong goalscoring performances. The striker, who has expressed ambitions of playing European football and representing France at the 2026 World Cup, has become a crucial figure for Crystal Palace since Oliver Glasner took over as manager.
The Frenchman enjoyed a standout finish to last season, scoring 11 goals in the final 10 matches, contributing significantly to the Eagles’ 10th-place finish. Mateta also had an impressive run with the French national team at the Olympic Games, netting five goals and helping secure a silver medal for his country.
So far this season, Mateta has scored seven goals and provided two assists in 21 appearances across all competitions. Despite Palace’s struggles in the Premier League, where they currently sit 16th, Mateta’s individual form remains a bright spot.
Palace will face Bournemouth away on Boxing Day, with hopes of securing a much-needed win to move up the table.
