Chelsea have been linked with a move for Crystal Palace winger Wilfried Zaha for some time now. The 27-year-old has been keen on a move away from the club for several years, but is it time for the Blues to end their interest in the Ivorian?
Zaha has undoubtedly got heaps of natural talent and ability. The way he glides past defenders is up there with the world’s best, and he can change any game in an instant.
He is the sort of player that would improve any team, including Chelsea. His Premier League experience is another plus point, but the money involved is too much for what the club would get in return.
Reports have suggested that Crystal Palace will accept no less than £80 million for the winger. That would make him Chelsea’s record signing and he does not currently produce the numbers to justify that amount.
The Ivory Coast international has scored three goals and provided two assists in 20 Premier League starts this season. Although these numbers could be worse, they are no better than those of the wingers Chelsea currently have at the club.
On top of the large transfer fee, the wages Zaha will reportedly demand could prove to be another stumbling block. The Daily Star has reported that he will demand £200,000-a-week, which would make him one of the highest-paid players at the club.
Chelsea fear that this could unsettle the dressing room and cause problems when negotiating contracts with the likes of Tammy Abraham and Reece James.
It might be best for the club to end their pursuit of Zaha and prioritise other targets in January.
Receive a digest of our best Chelsea content each week direct to your mailbox
