Striker Signs Four-and-a-Half-Year Contract After Successful Loan Spell

Crystal Palace have secured the permanent signing of striker Jean-Philippe Mateta from Mainz, finalising a long-term deal following his successful loan spell.

The 24-year-old forward, who initially joined the club on loan in January 2021, has now committed to a four-and-a-half-year contract at Selhurst Park.

Mateta’s loan arrangement included an option to buy for £13 million, contingent on meeting certain conditions, but with the player not meeting the required appearances, the club successfully negotiated a reduced transfer fee of £8 million.

Although Mateta was initially considered for a departure during the January transfer window, a resurgence in his performances led to Palace’s decision to secure his services permanently.

The striker expressed his gratitude, saying: “I’m happy. I want to thank the gaffer [Patrick Vieira] for trusting in me, as well as Dougie [Freedman], chairman [Steve Parish], the team, the fans, and my family.”

Palace chairman Steve Parish shared his delight at the signing, commenting: “We are thrilled to secure Jean-Philippe’s future at the club. Adapting to a new country, team, and league is challenging, and JP has worked tirelessly to prove himself. He has demonstrated the right attitude, aptitude, and commitment we expect, along with his natural footballing talent. I’m excited to see more of him in a Palace shirt.”