Turkish delight for Zaha as Wilf seals Galatasaray switch

Wilfried Zaha has joined Turkish champions Galatasaray on a free transfer.

The 30-year-old saw his contract at Crystal Palace expire at the end of 2022-23 after 13 seasons across two spells at Selhurst Park.

Despite the offer of a new deal from his boyhood club, the Ivory Coast international winger decided to play outside the UK for the first time in his career.

On Sunday, he posted on social media: "As I start a new chapter, I want to speak to you Palace fans who mean so much to me.

"We have been through so much together. There are loads of amazing memories that will stay in my head forever and also some really tough times along the way.

"I've been wearing the Palace shirt since I was eight. It's literally been my second skin and I always gave EVERYTHING when I wore it.

"You have all seen me angry and frustrated but you've also seen my hunger and passion and the joy that I take from winning and I hope that is the memory that lives on in the minds of Palace fans.

"I have been blessed to play in front of you and call you family from the day you accepted me. From the bottom of my heart, I'm forever grateful."

Zaha made 458 appearances for the Eagles and was named the South Londoners' Player of the Year on three occasions.

He now joins Istanbul giants Galatasaray, who play the first leg of their Champions League second qualifying round tie against Zalgiris tomorrow night.

Okan Buruk's side won the Super Lig title for the first time in four years last term, finishing eight points clear of nearest rivals Fenerbahce.