Crystal Palace fans shouldn’t get too excited about Wilfried Zaha’s new contract, says former Eagles owner Simon Jordan
Ex-Selhurst Park chief says the forward's new five-year deal is not all good news for the London club...
Simon Jordan has warned Crystal Palace supporters not to get too excited about Wilfried Zaha signing a new deal with the club.
The Eagles confirmed on Wednesday that their star man had penned a bumper five-year contract - understood to be worth around £130,000-a-week.
It comes after a summer transfer window rife with speculation over the 25-year-old's future at Selhurst Park, with Zaha linked with moves to London rivals Chelsea and Tottenham.
It appears, by signing a new deal, the Ivory Coast international has committed his future to the club he has played for since he was 12.
However, former owner and chairman Jordan believes Palace had another reason to tie their key asset to fresh terms – so they can demand a premium price if any clubs come in for Zaha again in future transfer windows.
READ: The stats that show just how important Wilfried Zaha is to Crystal Palace
Speaking to talkSPORT host Jim White, the ex-Eagles chief said: “I don’t want to be too cynical, but I feel while this is good news for Palace fans, what this is also about is price protection.
“Getting him back on a five-year contract will enhance the value Palace can demand for him.
“So while I think it’s good news on one hand, it could also be the basis of commanding the right value for Zaha, with is in the £70-80million bracket.
“And while some people snigger behind their hands, educated people in football understand how good Wilfried Zaha is, will be and will continue to be.
“So it’s good news, but balance it with the fact there’s probably some economics behind it.
“Palace are establishing and holding the value of the player in the event that a Chelsea, Tottenham or Arsenal come knocking on their door next year.”