In a recent report, Fichajes claimed that Barcelona are eyeing a move for Crystal Palace star Wilfried Zaha. It is believed that the Catalan club are hoping to acquire the services of the talented wide player who is currently on an expiring contract at Selhurst Park.
Zaha’s Impressive Season In The English Capital
The 30-year-old has caught the eye at times for the Eagles during this campaign and has managed to put in some impressive displays for them in the final third. Zaha has banged in six goals and grabbed two assists in 15 matches for the London club this season in all compeititions.
The Ivory Coast international has given a good account of himself in the opponent’s half as he is averaging 1.7 tackles, 2.4 shots, 1.1 key passes and 1.7 dribbles per 90 minutes in Premier League football. He has even been excellent when distributing possession in the opponent’s half, as evidenced by his pass success rate of 83.1% in the top tier of English football (stats via whoscored).
His current contract with the Eagles is set to run out at the end of this campaign. Thus, Barca might have a good chance of recruiting him on a free transfer next summer if the player refuses to pen a new contract with Palace by then.
What Will Zaha Bring To Barcelona?
Zaha is a wide player who doesn’t mind getting stuck in with some solid tackles to make life difficult for the opposition. He has got the pace to get in behind the opponent’s backline and can engineer some meaningful openings for his teammates on the attacking third of the pitch.
The Crystal Palace star can strike the ball with venom and accuracy from long range and can contribute by scoring and creating his fair share of goals up top. He mainly operates as a left-sided wide player but can also play on the right wing or function as a centre-forward if required.
We can expect Zaha to bring more pace and goals to Xavi‘s frontline if Barcelona can devise a way to get him on board next summer.
At 30, Zaha has still got a few good years left in him to play at a high level and would be a good, short-term signing for Barca to consider later this year. He has what it takes to compete for a regular starting spot at the Nou Camp and could help the Catalan club challenge for some major trophies in the not-too-distant future.
