Former Premier League star in talks for shock move to MLS side managed by ex-Aston Villa boss Dean Smith
- Wilfred Zaha has not been able to secure regular playing time on loan to Lyon this season
- The winger secured the move to France after falling out of favor at Galatasaray
- Listen to It all starts! Why Manchester United may have to sell Kobbie Mainoo or Alejandro Garnacho
Wilfred Zaha is in talks for a shock move to MLS side Charlotte FC this month.
The former Crystal Palace winger completes an initial loan deal with the potential for another season.
The 32-year-old is on loan from Lyon at Galatasaray, but with his playing time in France limited, he has been exploring options to find a new club.
Because he has played for Galatasaray and Lyon in the same season, the rules mean he cannot appear for any other team in Europe this season.
That opened the door for the ambitious Charlotte, who is now hopeful of reaching an agreement.
Zaha, who was back in the stands at Selhurst Park for Palace’s match against Arsenal in December, has not ruled out a return to the Premier League at some point but is ready for the chance of a new challenge in the United States to grasp.
Wilfred Zaha has struggled to get playing time as he joined Lyon on loan from Turkish side Galatasaray
The ambitious MLS side is currently managed by former Brentford and Aston Villa boss Dean Smith
The club wants to compete with the big players in the division, including Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami
Zaha made his first-team debut for Palace in March 2010 at the age of 17 and joined United in January 2013 as Sir Alex Ferguson’s latest signing.
However, Zaha only played four times under Ferguson’s replacement David Moyes.
He returned to Palace the following summer, first on a season-long loan and then permanently in January 2015, staying for a further eight and a half years.
He scored 90 goals and 52 assists in 458 appearances for the south London team.
His signing will be seen as an exciting coup for Charlotte, who were in negotiations with Newcastle United for Miguel Almiron.