Crystal Palace boss Patrick Vieira has delivered a cryptic message over Wilfried Zaha’s future amid growing interest from Barcelona and Juventus. Despite repeating the club’s desire to tie their star winger down to a new deal, the Frenchman has confessed he’s yet to understand the player’s plans.
During an interview with the British paper Evening Standard, Vieira stated Zaha knows Palace’s stance on his future. But he also admitted that he’s yet to hear from his talisman about the potential contract extension.
“Wilfred knows the position of the football club and the decision is going to be his. When he will be ready, we will listen to what he has to say,” Vieira said.
“But everyone knows we want him to stay in our football club. We want to grow with Wilfried as one of our leaders, but the decision has to be his.“
Zaha is about to enter the final six months of his contract at Selhurst Park. And while Palace would like him to commit to a new deal, the Ivory Coast international has yet to open talks with the Eagles chiefs.
As arguably the biggest name at the club, the ex-Manchester United man has attracted several high-profile suitors. After Barcelona, Zaha now has another proposition on the table should he decide to sever ties with Palace at the end of the season.
The 30-year-old’s hesitance has prompted a wave of rumors, linking him with several top European clubs. One such is Juventus, who, despite recently welcoming Federico Chiesa back from a long-term injury, are on the lookout for a new forward.
However, Juventus would only be willing to swoop for Zaha if he runs down his contract in London. Known for their unique ability to lure top-class players without throwing money around for stratospheric transfer fees, the Italians patiently monitor the situation from the shadows.