Crystal Palace winger Wilfried Zaha has been linked with a move to high-fliers Tottenham Hotspur in the upcoming transfer window.
The former Manchester United man had been the subject of a transfer bid by Mauricio Pochettino’s side in the summer of 2016, but the Eagles strictly rejected any kind of approach. However, with the threat of relegation looming large at Selhurst Park, they could be forced into selling Zaha if Spurs come calling again in the summer.
Zaha has had an impressive season for Palace this term and has been the lone bright spots in a season where they have struggled to deliver. The 24-year old has scored 5 goals this season and has also set up eight strikes for his teammates.
Tottenham need a quality wide-player among the ranks. With Moussa Sissoko struggling and Georges-Kevin N’Koudou finding it hard to break through into the first-team, Pochettino has lacked a natural winger who could provide the width on the flanks. But are they doing the right thing chasing Zaha? Will he be able to add quality to the side? Here we give you three reasons why he could prove to be another flop at the White Hart Lane:
His Failure at Manchester United
Having impressed in his breakthrough years at Palace back in 2012, Zaha managed to catch the eye of then-Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson. The Ivorian went onto become the final signing under the legendary Scotsman.
But with David Moyes taking over in the following season, Zaha struggled to break into the first-team. His time at United was marred with issues of the field and the former Everton manager never even considered him for the first-team plans. His attitude was questioned, the fitness levels weren’t up to the mark and as a result he was shipped back to Palace on loan, before making the permanent move.
He may be enjoying a good season with the Eagles, but question marks remain over his attitude and mentality to play for and succeed at a big club like Tottenham.
Questions Over Defensive Contribution
Tottenham manager Pochettino demands a lot from his players. He expects all his players to track back and help out his defenders. With the high intensity pressing game they play, it is imperative for every player to close down opponents and put pressure on them for the ball.
Zaha, over the years, has demonstrated no intention and willingness to help out in defence. His lack of contribution in the defensive side of the game could prove to be a big stumbling block if he moves to Tottenham. Pochettino has shown in the past that if a player isn’t willing to adjust, he will not hesitate to get rid of the player.
Quality at the European Level
It is one thing to play and succeed at a club like Crystal Palace and it is completely different to play at Champions League level.
Tottenham have emerged as the Premier League’s top side over the past year and a half and they look like a club who will be challenging for top honours year in year out now. And that would mean a regular involvement in the European competitions. Zaha is just starting to prove himself in the English top-flight but there will be concerns among the fans, if he is indeed at the level required to perform at European stage. So, it could prove to be a risk for Spurs if they pursue with their interest in Zaha.