PALACE have signed striker Jean-Philippe Mateta on a permanent deal from Bundesliga side Mainz.

The striker had been on loan with the club since last January. Mateta had initially struggled to impress in London leading to reports that he could leave the club.

However, an upturn in form and recent impressive performances have seen his fortunes change.

Palace have now activated their option to make Mateta's loan deal a permanent one.

The striker has scored three goals in 16 appearances for the club since his arrival.

Speaking to Palace TV, Mateta said: “I’m happy. I want to say thank you to the gaffer [Patrick Vieira], he trusted in me.

“And [thank you to] Dougie [Freedman], the Chairman [Steve Parish] and the team and the fans also, and my family.”

Chairman Steve Parish added: “We are delighted to secure the long-term future of Jean-Philippe.

“Coming to a new country, a new team and a new league is not easy and JP worked incredibly hard to get and then take his opportunities.

“He really has shown the aptitude, attitude and dedication we look for along with his natural footballing ability.

“I’m looking forward to seeing much more of him in a Palace shirt.”

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