Crystal Palace have put the brakes on Jean-Philippe Mateta's expected move to St Etienne.

ASSE coach Pascal Duprav has declared he'd like to sign Mateta and has spoken with the striker about a return to France.

However, Le Progres says after being prepared to cut short Mateta's loan from Mainz so he can make the move, Palace management are rethinking the situation.

Mateta is currently enjoying the best form of his time with Palace, forcing manager Patrick Vieira to reconsider the whole deal.

The striker's loan from Mainz includes a permanent option for the Eagles.