Mateta and Crystal Palace locked in new contract talks

Crystal Palace striker Jean-Philippe Mateta’s long-term future at Selhurst Park has become uncertain as negotiations over a new contract have stalled. 

The French forward, who has been one of the Premier League’s most in-form strikers this season, still has a deal running until June 2027, but recent discussions have failed to produce a breakthrough.

Initial talks held earlier in the year were viewed positively by those close to the situation, yet no agreement has since been reached. 

Sources indicate that Mateta is in no hurry to commit his future to Palace, even as he continues to enhance his value with consistent performances. 

Having scored seven goals in 13 league games, he has developed into one of the division’s most dangerous centre forwards.

His club form has translated to international recognition, with Mateta scoring twice in three appearances for France since his debut in October. 

With a realistic chance of securing a place in Didier Deschamps’ World Cup squad for next year’s tournament in North America, the 28-year-old is said to prefer assessing his options after the competition. 

A strong World Cup could leave him in a powerful negotiating position, particularly with only a year remaining on his deal by then.

Despite the uncertainty, dialogue between Palace and Mateta’s camp is ongoing, and there remains hope inside the club that he could still sign fresh terms. 

Interest from Europe has grown in recent months, with Serie A side Atalanta among those monitoring his situation closely. Palace are aware that his rising profile may attract more suitors as the summer approaches.

The contract impasse adds to frustrations already felt by manager Oliver Glasner, who has repeatedly voiced concerns about the club’s transfer dealings. 

Following the 2-1 defeat to Manchester United on Sunday, Glasner noted that Palace “missed a couple of chances in July and August” to strengthen the squad, adding that he believed the club should have invested more aggressively ahead of their first season in European competition.

Glasner’s own position is not secure either, with his contract set to expire at the end of the current campaign and no extension yet agreed.