Crystal Palace is one of the regulars in the Premier League ever since their promotion in 2013. The Eagles struggled early on but have become an unpredictable mid-table club in recent years. This statement might be construed as a criticism but in reality, it is appreciation. A club of this size, comfortably surviving in the Premier League without spending a fortune is impressive.
The club’s highest transfer has been for 24 million pounds which is pennies in comparison to the market situation. All of the competitors have spent way more than Crystal Palace in the last decade and still have not consistently succeeded. This speaks to the success of Crystal Palace in recent seasons.
One man, who has been critical to the success of the East Londoners is Wilfried Zaha. The Ivory Coast international is their star player and has been the focal point. He is in sublime form this season as well. The forward is in the last months of his contract at the club and is a target for many top clubs.
Crystal Palace wants to retain the winger
The club wants to extend the contract of the player beyond this season. However, the player has not shown a willingness to extend the deal with the club. Meanwhile, clubs like Barcelona and Juventus have been linked with the Ivory Coast international. In such a scenario, Crystal Palace will find it difficult to retain the player.
The club has signed Eberechi Eze and Michael Olise to add cover in the attacking positions. However, both players have not completely adapted to the Premier League yet. If Wilfried Zaha departs at the end of his contract, the club will struggle to adapt.
They need the Ivorian to stay at the club for another couple of seasons to ensure that these players have sufficient time to settle properly. Patrick Viera has been smart with recruitment, but he has signed young players with an eye on the future. Those young players need proper time to adapt to the league. Crystal Palace’s best shot is to sell Wilfried Zaha this January and find a temporary solution for the position.
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