Mainz sports director Christian Heidel insists Crystal Palace can only axe Jean-Philippe Mateta in January on their say-so.

Palace are keen to cut short Mateta's loan in the New Year.

But quoted by Sport1 via Fussball Transfers, Heidel says: "The contract is clear. Mateta has a contract with Crystal Palace until June 2022. In terms of sport, it also seems to be clear. He can leave the club in winter. This only happens with our consent."

Indeed, an early return midseason for the 24 year-old is currently not being considered by the Bundesliga outfit.

Heidel continued: "We'll see what we can do with this constellation. We approach this very calmly and will talk to his adviser."

Mateta's loan with Palace includes a €15m permanent option. He first joined the Eagles in January last season and the deal runs to the end of this campaign. Mateta has a contract with Mainz to 2023.

So far this season, despite being on the outer of Palace manager Patrick Vieira's plans, Mateta has made three appearances. Overall with the Londoners, the former France U21 international striker has played ten games, scoring once.

Palace currently sit thirteenth on the Premier League table after ten games.

- updated November 3