I think that link mentioning the crosses and stars are referring to older frames. This one has got the usual vaguely triangular cutouts.
And turns out the seat post is 26.4. Came out no problem but zero grease on it. Looks like this bike was never ridden - the chain checks as no wear. Nice blob of grease at the bottom bracket although it doesn't feel great - it will come apart tomorrow night.

The freewheel is 6 speed - a Maillard. Will a Suntour 2 prong remover fit the Maillard?

Further to my suspicion that this is a lower end model, after looking at Velobase that's a Campy 980 front derailleur and 990 rear - both entry level.