Transfer Centre

Crystal Palace's Wilfried Zaha considering Saudi Arabia move?

By Ben Sully | 22 February 2023

Three Saudi Arabian clubs are reportedly interested in signing Crystal Palace's Wilfried Zaha, who is considering whether to move to the Gulf state.

Crystal Palace striker Wilfried Zaha is reportedly interested in a potential move to Saudi Arabia.

Zaha's long-term future at Selhurst Park is shrouded in uncertainty, with his current contract set to expire at the end of the season.

Talks have taken place over a deal worth more than his current £130,000-a-week wages, but there is no indication that Zaha is prepared to put pen to paper on a new contract.

Across two spells with the Eagles, Zaha has made 450 appearances, scoring 89 goals and providing 76 assists.

The Ivory Coast international has missed Palace's last three games through injury, but he remains a key player in Patrick Vieira's side, starting all 19 of his Premier League appearances.

Crystal Palace's Wilfried Zaha in action with Chelsea's Benoit Badiashile on January 15, 2023 © Reuters

Tottenham Hotspur and Arsenal, who were previously linked with the 30-year-old, have supposedly cooled their interest.

However, according to the Evening Standard, Al-Nassr are one of three Saudi Arabian clubs who have sounded out Zaha about a potential free transfer.

The report indicates that Zaha would be open to moving to Saudi Arabia when his Palace contract expires in the summer.

A move to Al-Nassr would see Zaha link up with Cristiano Ronaldo, who joined the Saudi Pro League leaders in December.

Al-Nassr's Cristiano Ronaldo pictured during a training session on January 3, 2023 © Reuters

Al-Hilal and Al-Ittihad are also weighing up a move, and financing a deal should be no problem for any of the interested sides as funding for high-profile transfers is assisted by the state.

Saudi Arabia are keen to attract more big names to their league following the impact of Ronaldo's signing, which has boosted overseas viewing figures and stadium attendances.

Zaha could also be presented with the option of moving to Italy, with AC Milan believed to be strong admirers of the Palace forward.

Although Zaha has recently returned to training, he is not expected to be ready in time for Saturday's Premier League home meeting with Liverpool.