Premier League
25-Year Old Crystal Palace Ace Wilfred Zaha Wants Spurs Move
London, England – Wilfred Zaha rejected a new contract in hopes of a move to city rivals Spurs, according to The Times’ Gary Jacobs. Zaha is the only reason Crystal Palace are still alive in the Premier League. The contract was reportedly worth £120,000 a week. In addition, it was set to make him the club’s joint top-earner, along with front-man Christian Benteke.
The Ivory Coast international’s representatives were disturbed by Palace’s Manager, Roy Hodgson’s lack of ambition. In statements made, he indicated that the club’s top aim was simply to survive the Premiership. A deal would be pricey though, as the club values the player at around £70 million. Zaha has scored nine goals and provided three assists in 29 appearances last season.
Tottenham are yet to sign a marquee player, with Chairman Daniel Levy happy to do business late in the transfer window. He is unlikely to match Palace’s £70 million valuation. However, reports suggest that a deal could be done with flop Moussa Sissoko heading the other way. Manager Mauricio Pochettino had hoped for new faces during the club’s USA tour, but that seems highly improbable with every passing day. Jack Grealish is also another player hot on his radar.
Crystal Palace will try to do everything to keep their talisman at Selhurst Park but, Daniel Levy has proved himself to be a master negotiator. Zaha, with his pace, could provide another dimension to the Tottenham attack. His key involvements during Palace’s relegation battle only further prove his worth. It will be difficult to restrain a player wanting a move away and hence this deal seems likely, though his £70 million valuation could prove a hindrance.
What will be in store for Tottenham this season?
Transfer Possibility Rating: 6
