The Premier League summer transfer window shuts this evening (Thursday) and could be a dramatic day for big transfers. One of the big-name players who could move on is Crystal Palace winger Wilfried Zaha.
Everton look the Ivorian’s most likely destination. The Toffees have seen two bids turned down for Zaha, including a reported bid of £70million plus James McCarthy and Cenk Tosun. The Eagles reportedly want over £80million for the winger.
However, there was a twist in the tail on Wednesday, as Zaha decided to hand in a transfer request to push the move through. The 26-year-old stated at the start of the campaign he wanted to make a move to a team playing in the Champions League.
Everton finished eighth-place in the top-flight table last season and do not have European football. However, the difference in ambition between his potential new club and his current employers are worlds apart.
The Toffees have big ambitions and backed them up by making some big moves in the transfer market. Palace, on the other hand, have been underwhelming in their transfer business this summer.
View this post on Instagram Happy Birthday to my purpose in life .. my prince is growing up so fast I can’t believe my own eyes and all I can do is thank God every day for such a blessing in my life! 3 already wow! I’m lost for words but I just wanted to share with the world that a king was born on this day ❤️ A post shared by Wilfried Zaha (@wilfriedzaha) on Aug 5, 2019 at 12:35am PDT
Happy Birthday to my purpose in life .. my prince is growing up so fast I can’t believe my own eyes and all I can do is thank God every day for such a blessing in my life! 3 already wow! I’m lost for words but I just wanted to share with the world that a king was born on this day ❤️
A post shared by Wilfried Zaha (@wilfriedzaha) on Aug 5, 2019 at 12:35am PDT
If he stays with the Eagles, then he is more likely to be involved in a fight for survival than be anywhere near the level he wants to play at in the near future. However, Everton look like a team that could threaten the top-six next season.
Zaha obviously sees the ambition that the Toffees have for the future. His addition would certainly enhance the Merseysider’s chances of a top-six finish. His signing would also be a statement from Everton that they really mean business.
It remains to be seen if Everton meet Palace’s demands. However, with the player wanting to leave and the two clubs not far off in their valuation of the two players, Zaha heading to Merseyside could well be the biggest deal of deadline day.