Transfer Centre

Tottenham Hotspur 'explored deadline-day move for Wilfried Zaha'

By Matt Law, Football Editor | 03 September 2022

Tottenham 'explored deadline-day move for Wilfried Zaha'

Tottenham Hotspur attempted to sign Crystal Palace attacker Wilfried Zaha late in the summer transfer window, according to a report.

Tottenham Hotspur reportedly attempted to sign Crystal Palace attacker Wilfried Zaha in the latter stages of the summer transfer window.

The 29-year-old's future at Selhurst Park was called into question in the final moments of the market, with both Arsenal and Chelsea believed to be considering signing him.

According to The Athletic, Tottenham explored the possibility of acquiring Zaha before the window slammed shut, but Palace refused to enter into discussions over the Ivory Coast international.

The forward has entered the final year of his contract at Selhurst Park, placing the Eagles in a difficult position, particularly if he continues his impressive form.

Zaha has scored four times in his first four Premier League appearances of the season, including a brace in the 3-1 victory over Aston Villa on August 20.

Crystal Palace winger Wilfried Zaha celebrating his goal against Brentford on August 30, 2022. © Reuters

The Ivorian was also on the scoresheet at Anfield in the middle of last month, with Patrick Vieira's side securing a share of the spoils against Liverpool.

Zaha started his professional career at Palace before joining Manchester United in 2013, but he only made four first-team appearances during his time at Old Trafford, returning to the Eagles on a permanent basis in 2015 after two loan spells at the club.

In total, the forward has represented Palace on 434 occasions in all competitions, contributing 87 goals and 73 assists.

As it stands, Zaha would be free to enter into contract discussions with foreign clubs in January, with Vieira's side facing the real possibility of losing their star player on a free transfer next June.

Antonio Conte in charge of Tottenham Hotspur in July 2022 © Reuters

Tottenham were active during the summer market, bringing in Richarlison, Yves Bissouma, Destiny Udogie, Ivan Perisic, Djed Spence, Fraser Forster and Clement Lenglet.

Meanwhile, Cristian Romero's permanent move from Atalanta BC was also confirmed before the end of the window.

Antonio Conte's side allowed a number of players to leave on loan over the summer, but they only made two permanent sales, with Steven Bergwijn joining Ajax, and Cameron Carter-Vickers moving to Celtic.

Tottenham have made an encouraging start to their 2022-23 Premier League campaign, collecting 11 points from five matches, which has left them in third position in the table.

Spurs, who drew 1-1 at West Ham United on Wednesday evening, have another London derby against Fulham on Saturday afternoon.