Overview

• Jean-Philippe Mateta told RMC Sport he wants to reach the Champions League, calling it a natural goal for an ambitious player.
• The 28-year-old has started the season with four goals and remains a central figure for Crystal Palace as they enter the Europa Conference League.
• Sam Allardyce argued Manchester United should have signed Mateta, as the club instead paid a reported fee of more than £70m for Benjamin Sesko.
• Mateta’s form under Oliver Glasner includes 19 goals followed by 17 last season, plus FA Cup and Community Shield wins and a subsequent call-up for France.
• Recent coverage portrays his comments as opening the door to a potential step up, though he continues to lead the line at Selhurst Park.