According to Sky Sports journalist Kaveh Solhekol, Crystal Palace’s star attacker Wilfried Zaha has told his club that he wants to leave shortly after returning from the African Cup of Nations. Metro claims Palace will be holding out for a fee in the range of £70 million. But, Zaha’s desire to leave the club might force them to lower their asking fee.
The Eagles rejected a £40 million Arsenal bid earlier this summer. However, the Gunners are adamant on signing Zaha, who has become Unai Emery’s number one in the ongoing transfer window.
Will Zaha be a good signing for Arsenal?
Arsenal have appeared overreliant on the services of their offensive duo of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Alexandre Lacazette. However, with Aaron Ramsey joining Juventus, these two strikers could lack the adequate supply in the final third, especially with Mesut Ozil struggling with form.
Furthermore, Alex Iwobi is the only natural winger Emery has at his disposal, thus accentuating the need for Zaha. The former Manchester United prodigy can enhance Arsenal’s quality in the wide-attacking positions. At the age of only 26, he can also be considered as a long-term investment for the club.
How will Zaha fit into Emery’s plans next season?
Zaha is a versatile attacker who can also play in a more central role. But, it is unlikely Emery will want him to start over the likes of Lacazette and Aubameyang. That means the Ivorian will be deployed in his favoured right-wing slot. His presence on the flanks will allow Ozil, if he remains, to feature in his customary number ten role.
From a tactical perspective, Zaha can be utilised as a runner, alongside Aubameyang. Lacazette, on the other hand, will operate in a deeper role. The Frenchman’s incredible work-ethic means he can quickly drop back and pick up balls from midfield. He can also link up with the likes of Ozil and Torreira, making the Gunners much more dangerous going forward.
The Crystal Palace star’s services on the flanks will be essential when facing teams that employ a deep defensive block. He has the trickery as well as the dribbling prowess to not only occupy defenders but also attract them to an isolated area. This helps in creating more spaces for his teammates.
Therefore, Zaha will, no doubt, be an asset for Arsenal not only from a sporting perspective but also from a tactical aspect. The Gunners need to double their efforts as they aim to secure the services of this talented winger this summer.
