With the aid of some ‘cryptic’ messages embedded in recent Instagram posts from both Serge Aurier and Wilfried Zaha, speculation has risen regarding Zaha’s potential transfer to Tottenham. It must be said however, that in no way can a set of emojis provided by Serge Aurier act as reliable transfer news. Nevertheless, alongside these cryptic posts, it has become apparent that Crystal Palace have made a move for free agent, Max Meyer. The German midfielder may arguably be the replacement lined up in case Zaha does opt for a move across London. Again, this is merely speculation. What is certain is that Zaha has been a long-term target for Tottenham, but what would he bring to the team?
What Would Wilfried Zaha Bring To Tottenham?
Pace is Needed at Tottenham
Genuine pace is something Tottenham lacked at times during the 2017/2018 campaign. Heung Min Son was arguably the only regular starter who could trouble a defence with their pace. The previous season had seen Tottenham frequently playing with a back three, with Danny Rose and Kyle Walker providing the pace in the team.
Last season saw a switch to a back four, with Davies and Trippier taking over as first choice full backs. Whilst impressing immensely, they do not provide the team with the same speed. Wilfried Zaha is bursting with pace, power and is not afraid to take a player on. Only Eden Hazard (4.9) attempted more dribbled per game than Zaha (4.1) last season. Additionally, no player was fouled more per game (2.6). Zaha’s direct approach could be a huge asset to Spurs.
Zaha’s Positional Diversity
A key attribute in Zaha’s armoury is his ability to play both as a winger or a striker. This diversity is certainly an attractive quality for Tottenham, who essentially could bolster two positions in acquiring the attacker.
Zaha is primarily known as a winger but impressed many whilst playing as a striker for much of last season. This positional switch saw Zaha pick up April’s Premier League Player of the Month award after the Ivorian grabbed four goals and an assist in four games.
Zaha completed the season with nine goals in 29 league games. Only Heung Min Son and an aged Fernando Llorente currently provide back up to Harry Kane. Zaha could, therefore, emerge as a hugely important signing.
Adding to the Squad
The recent World Cup highlighted quite how much talent the starting eleven at Tottenham possesses. Where Tottenham need to improve, however, is the depth of their squad.
Willian, Anthony Martial, Bernado Silva, Marcus Rashford and Xherdan Shaqiri are all primarily squad players at their respective clubs, showing the depth the other top six teams have.
Zaha would prove to be a valuable addition to the squad. Either starting regularly, competing for places and improving current personnel, or making an impact off the bench, singings of Zaha’s calibre would certainly have a positive impact on the squad.
Raise the Fans’ Spirits
The signing of Wilfried Zaha would provide a much-needed boost for the Tottenham fans. In a rather chaotic start to the season, Tottenham are yet to make a signing. With the stadium delay, alongside several late returns, a significant signing would settle some of the current tension.
Only Rumour at this Stage
Whilst Tottenham’s interest in Zaha is long-term, any potential deal is only a rumour at this stage. In addition, if Crystal Palace are asking for £70 million, as reported, Tottenham may struggle to seal the signing.
Rumour or not, the signing of Zaha would provide a number of benefits to the team, being pace, positional diversity and increased competition within the squad.
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