Report: Why Wilfried Zaha is not allowed to rejoin Crystal Palace this month but can sign for Charlotte FC
Today at 12:45 PM
Wilfried Zaha is unable to make a return to Crystal Palace during the winter transfer window.
The Ivory Coast international – a legend at Crystal Palace – is looking for a way out of Lyon this month, after making just a single start in Ligue 1 so far this season during his loan spell from Galatasaray.
A story from the Guardian suggested that Crystal Palace are keen to bring the Ivorian back to Selhurst Park, although FIFA rules prevent the move from happening as the 32-year-old has already represented two clubs in Galatasaray and Lyon this term, and cannot play for a third club in one season.
However – despite that rule – talkSPORT state that Wilfried Zaha is now close to joining Charlotte FC on loan from Galatasaray, but how is that possible when a return to Crystal Palace was blocked? Let’s take a look.
Why Wilfried Zaha can join Charlotte FC but not Crystal Palace
Crucially, Major League Soccer (MLS) is a single entity structured division – one owned by the league and individually operated by investors, so it does not have to comply with FIFA regulations.
That is why Zaha is eligible to play for Charlotte FC – taking one of their Designated Player spots.
The man born in Abidjan will be closer to his old Crystal Palace teammate Christian Benteke – should the move be finalised – with the Belgian currently starring for D.C. United in Washington.
Zaha, who Wolves considered last summer, was actually in attendance at Selhurst Park in December to watch Arsenal record a 5-1 win over Crystal Palace.
Steve Parish – Chairman of Crystal Palace – also admitted last summer he would definitely take the Ivorian back, telling talkSPORT: “I'd have Wilf Zaha back in a heartbeat. He’s part of our club, part of our history as I’ve said countless times.”
Crystal Palace are close to signing a different winger in Romain Esse
While a move for Zaha cannot happen this month, the Eagles are close to signing another winger.
Crystal Palace have agreed a deal to sign Romain Esse from south London rivals Millwall, after shaking hands on a £14.5m fee with the Lions.
