Wilfried Zaha, the talented winger, has engaged in discussions with Al-Ettifaq, managed by Steven Gerrard, regarding a potential transfer to Saudi Arabia during the upcoming summer. Al-Ettifaq, competing in the Saudi Pro League, has reportedly presented a written offer to Zaha, with the contract entailing an annual salary of £16 million ($20m), as reported by the Daily Mail.
In the broader context, it is mentioned in the report that Zaha’s representatives requested a further £7.5 million ($9.6m) increase in the proposed offer, which was subsequently turned down by the club. A source close to the matter, cited by the Daily Mail, commented, “There is not a bottomless pit of money and we will not be held to ransom.”
Furthermore, the Ivory Coast international finds himself in a free agent status following the expiration of his contract with Crystal Palace on July 1. Zaha declined to sign a new contract worth £200,000-per-week, paving the way for his departure from the club. Initially, Al-Nassr, linked with Cristiano Ronaldo, reportedly expressed interest in securing Zaha’s services, but they withdrew their pursuit due to his high wage demands.
Zaha’s potential move to Al-Ettifaq presents an intriguing prospect, as he would reunite with former Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard, who recently assumed the managerial role at the Saudi Arabian club. While negotiations continue, it remains to be seen whether the financial aspects will be resolved and a mutually beneficial agreement can be reached between the parties involved.