Patrick Vieira responds to Wilfried Zaha transfer reports

Recent reports have linked the Crystal Palace winger with a summer move to Jose Mourinho’s Roma side.

Crystal Palace manager Patrick Vieira has played down links between Wilfried Zaha and AS Roma, suggesting it is ‘just a report’.

According to Sky Sport Italia journalist Gianluca di Marzio, Roma hold an interest in Zaha. The Giallorossi have not approached Palace though. This is despite the English side’s interest in forward Felix Afena-Gyan, which may pave the way for a potential swap deal between the clubs.

As things stand, Zaha will become a free agent when his Palace contract expires next summer.

AS Roma are considering to make a move for Wilfried Zaha. No official bid yet – but he’s really appreciated by club board and José Mourinho. 🔴 #ASRoma

No discussions opened with Crystal Palace, still early stages – option now considered internally. @SkySport

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 8, 2022

‘Zaha is happy in our football club’

But while the Ivory Coast international is absent from the club’s pre-season tour of Australia and Singapore, Vieira doesn’t believe an exit is on the agenda.

“It’s just a report, I think,” the Eagles coach said at a press conference.

“We are in a period where there is a lot of speculation regarding players.

“What is really important for me and the football club is that Wilfried Zaha came back on time and he is working well to have a good season.

“What goes on in the papers, it is difficult for us to control. I know he is happy in our football club. He is looking forward to the new season at our football club.”

Palace will face Liverpool for a friendly in Singapore on Friday afternoon.