Palace readying for Zaha exit as Hodgson confirms player’s intentions

Wilfried Zaha Crystal Palace TEAMtalk

Crystal Palace look likely to lose star winger Wilfried Zaha in the upcoming transfer window after Roy Hodgson confirmed he is still seeking a move away.

Zaha made it clear that he wanted to leave Selhurst Park last summer, but failed to find a suitor. Part of that was due to Palace’s valuation, which was around £80million.

The 27-year-old ended up staying with the Eagles, but has seen a significant drop off in his output. Having hit double figures for both goals and assists in 2018/19, he has netted just four times this campaign. His creativity has suffered too, setting up only five goals for his teammates.

And after a quiet season, his manager has stated the Ivory Coast international is still set on departing the London club.

As quoted by the Evening Standard, Hodgson said: “Wilf has made it clear ever since I came to the club, really, that he would like to move on and find some pastures new. But of course he is a very valuable player and the club realises his value.

“Everything will depend on what sort of offers the club receives for him. Or maybe we satisfy his wishes and allow him to go after giving good service to the club for a period of time.

“Quite frankly I have no answer… it will be a matter of seeing what transpires.”

Arsenal, Tottenham and Chelsea have all been linked with Zaha in the past, but it is unknown if their interest still stands.

 

Given the current financial climate, it is unlikely they will be tempted into making offers if Palace are still after a such a high fee. Arsenal and Spurs in particular have made it clear they won’t have the funds to spend big in the transfer market.

ARSENAL HAVE LIST OF ATTACKING TARGETS

Zaha’s situation may prove to be of interest to the Gunners, however reports state they have already identified four other forward options.

With Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang potentially on his way out, they might need to replace their most influential player.

And Mikel Arteta is preparing for that, putting together a shortlist of four attacking stars who could be signed for next year.

Find out who those players are here…