Transfer Story:
After last summer’s transfer window, many would have backed Everton to clinch a European spot at the very least. They had made some inspiring signings and great things were expected undoubtedly. However, due to Ronald Koeman’s tactical mistakes and the poor form of the important members of the squad they never really got going. Right now though, Everton seem to be redoing their transfer strategy and with Marco Silva at the helm, they can be sure that the managerial issues would be resolved.
Wilfried Zaha was the sole star in Crystal Palace’s comeback in the league campaign last season. His importance to their revival in the league was well witnessed by any Premier League observer and hence there must be little doubts over the temperament of this player. However, it would obviously be difficult for Crystal Palace to keep hold of their man and rumours are suggesting that Zaha is close to a move to Everton now. The Toffees offloaded Wayne Rooney this summer and will be keen to add some more quality to their attacking department.
Zaha: Player Profile
Zaha is very quick on his feet and is strong on either foot, something that makes it difficult to perceive his succeeding actions. His dribbling skills are one of the best in the league, and Wilfried can beat his marker due to supreme pace and such nifty footwork. His tendency to accelerate on the field as soon as he receives the possession of the ball means that the team is on an attacking move whenever the ball is distributed towards the wing. Zaha’s decision-making has improved too, and hence he has become more efficient and useful in front of the goal. He scored nine goals and assisted thrice in 29 appearances last season.
Wilfried completed 4.1 dribbles on an average, something that shows that he likes to display his footwork whilst making it difficult for the adversary to keep him in check. Zaha delivered 1.8 key passes and took 2.2 shots on target too. He wins foul in important areas, is an integral member on the counter-attacks and can be trusted to finish off attacking moves calmly due to his increased composure in front of the goal. He can slide in cheeky deliveries into the box and can chip the ball over the goalkeeper’s head in order to notch a goal too.
Should Everton make a move?
This looks like the ideal setup for France right now. Zaha can be a good backup on the wings and brings in a factor of zeal and drive in his game too. He has Premier League experience to his name and is temperamentally strong to drag his team to safety too. At Everton, he could play a crucial role in the club’s quest to secure a qualification to the European competition next season.
Latest Updates
With latest reports stating Crystal Palace’s valuation of Zaha as £70m, it will be interesting to see whether Everton keep their pursuit on or not.
