Wilfried Zaha has spoken of his delight after securing a summer move to Manchester United but insists his “focus” remains on winning promotion with Crystal Palace.
The 20-year-old winger has agreed a five-and-a-half year deal but will stay at Selhurst Park until the summer after being loaned back to Palace.
“I am delighted to be joining Manchester United. However, my focus for the next five months will be solely at Crystal Palace,” said Zaha.
United are reported to have agreed an £10m up front fee, with an extra £5m payable in a series of performance based add-ons.
The two clubs confirmed they had reached an agreement this morning, with Palace also announcing they expect the move to be finalised next week.
The skilful wide-man who has already agreed personal terms with the Premier League leaders was in Manchester this morning to undergo his medical at the Bridgewater Hospital.
“We like to sign players with potential,” Manager Sir Alex Ferguson told www.manutd.com
“We develop players and that’s been proven many times. Hopefully the boy enjoys it here.”
Zaha, who came through Palace’s youth set up and made his first-team debut against Cardiff while still an Apprentice, has scored 15 goals in 124 appearances for the Eagles
He was named as hottest property in the Championship last term picking up The Football League’s Young Player of the Year award last March.
“I have been at Palace for more than 10 years, I will always love the club and I want to help get them back to the Premier League, particularly for the fans who have always been so good to me,” added Zaha who made his full England debut in November.
Palace who currently sit fourth in the Championship, two points behind Leicester had always maintained that Zaha would not be allowed to leave the club on a permanent basis in January.
“It was essential to Wilf and ourselves that he stayed at Palace for the remainder of this season to help the club with its main aim of promotion to the Premier League,” said Eagles Co-chairman Steve Parish.
“I feel this is a great deal for the club and the player,” he added.
