Wilfried Zaha departs Crystal Palace and signs with Galatasaray
Free in the market after leaving Crystal Palace, Ivorian forward Wilfried Zaha has become one of the most sought-after players. Several teams showed interest in the player and offered astronomical salaries. However, he preferred to choose a project where he would be a starter in the team.
Among the main interested parties were PSG and Al Nassr, both engaged in a battle for the player. However, this week, he set aside the interest of both teams and moved forward with an agreement with another European football giant.
According to information reported by journalist Fabrizio Romano, Zaha has already decided on his next team. The Ivorian disregarded other clubs and is close to reaching an agreement with Galatasaray for the upcoming season.
Despite Crystal Palace’s interest in retaining the player, Zaha has already made significant progress in finalizing his deal with the Turkish team. Medical exams have been scheduled, and if the striker passes, he will sign a contract with the team. Galatasaray is expected to announce the player’s signing later this week.
Zaha on the verge of being announced at Galatasaray
The announcement of Zaha’s signing by Galatasaray is expected to happen in the coming days. Over the weekend, the team also made strides in acquiring Mauro Icardi. With these high-profile signings, the club is shaping up for the upcoming European season.
Zaha, aged 30, is considered a symbol of Crystal Palace. He has served the club for over 10 seasons, playing 458 matches and scoring 90 goals. He has also earned more than 32 caps and scored 5 goals for the Ivory Coast national team.
The 30-year-old player, who was also a target for Fenerbahçe, will receive €4.35 million per season, along with a signing bonus of €2.33 million, according to Galatasaray. The Ivorian forward is set to share the Galatasaray attack with Argentine Mauro Icardi, whose permanent transfer from Paris Saint-Germain to the Istanbul club after a loan season seems very close, according to the Turkish press.