Jean-Philippe Mateta is arguing the remainder of his Crystal Palace contract is invalid and has taken his case to Fifa. Multiple sources confirm the France international launched an official challenge over the validity of the final 10 months on his Selhurst Park deal, which expires in June 2027. While a Premier League tribunal previously upheld the agreement, Mateta’s representatives have now appealed to world football’s governing body.

Fifa ruled earlier this week that overruling the contract falls outside its jurisdiction. If successful, the challenge could see the forward become a free agent before next season. The 29-year-old has scored 67 goals since joining permanently in January 2022, playing a major role in Palace’s historic FA Cup and UEFA Conference League triumphs under former manager Oliver Glasner.

Off the pitch, Palace face early setbacks as new manager Pierre Sage navigates injuries to Ismaila Sarr and Chadi Riad following a 2-0 opening day defeat at Everton. Sources note concrete interest from Galatasaray for Sarr, though the club demands a bid well above market value. The contract standoff adds to a turbulent start for both the striker and the Eagles.