Roma consider free-agent move for Wilfried Zaha after left-winger pursuit fails

Roma are considering a move for Wilfried Zaha after failing to sign a left winger during the summer transfer window, according to Italian newspaper La Gazzetta dello Sport.

The former Crystal Palace and Manchester United forward is currently without a club and could be available on a free transfer in the coming days. Zaha, 33, left Turkish club Galatasaray at the end of the season and has not joined another side.

Roma are understood to be assessing whether to bring in the Cote d’Ivoire international as they continue to look for an attacking option on the left side. The club’s interest comes after their attempt to recruit a player in that position during the summer window proved unsuccessful.

Zaha has played for Manchester United, Crystal Palace, Lyon, Charlotte FC and Galatasaray during his career. He was previously linked with a move to Roma in the summer of 2023, following the expiry of his contract with Crystal Palace, but instead signed for Galatasaray.

His most productive and sustained spell came at Crystal Palace. Zaha initially returned to the club on loan in 2013 and again in 2014 before making the move permanent in 2015. He then spent eight years with the English side.

Across his Crystal Palace career, Zaha scored 90 goals in 458 appearances. His performances and importance to the club made him one of their most recognisable players, while his ability to operate from wide positions has remained a defining feature of his game.

Zaha began his senior career at Crystal Palace before earning a move to Manchester United. He later spent time with the London club again, as well as Lyon, Charlotte FC and Galatasaray, giving him experience in English, French, American and Turkish football.

At international level, Zaha has made 34 appearances for Cote d’Ivoire and scored four goals.

His honours include the Turkish Cup and Turkish Super Cup, both won during his time with Galatasaray, as well as the Community Shield with Manchester United.

Roma’s reported interest would give Zaha the opportunity to return to a major European league after his spell in Turkey. The Italian club are now studying whether his experience and availability as a free agent can provide a solution to their need for a left winger.