‘Have a big think’ – Wilfried Zaha warned off joining Arsenal by Paul Merson as Crystal Palace star’s contract runs down

WILFRIED ZAHA has been warned off joining a Big Six club amid links to Arsenal.

Former Gooner Paul Merson believes Zaha is playing the best football of his career after netting five times in nine games this season.

There is speculation the winger could run down his contract and leave Crystal Palace next summer, with Arsenal rumoured to be interested.

But Merson advised the 29-year-old to carefully consider his next step - as a move to a Big Six club could backfire.

Merson wrote in his column: "Wilfried Zaha plays every week at Crystal Palace.

"He can have a bad game and still start the following match and that might not happen at a Big Six club.

"I think he should seriously consider his options before running down his contract. He’s a legend at Palace and the manager loves him.

"I see someone like Arsenal coming in for him if they get into the Champions League but do you go there and risk becoming a bit-part player?

"You’re then going on a free. It’s not like you’re Darwin Nunez, who cost £85m and therefore has to play. Will he want to play for one week and then drop to the bench? I’m just not sure whether the grass is going to be greener for Zaha.

"He’s playing the best football of his career and there is a reason for that. He needs to sit down and have a big think about his future."

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Palace have reportedly offered Zaha a new long-term contract but he has made no secret of his desire to play at the highest level.

The Ivory Coast international wants to play Champions League football and is said to be targeting a move to Liverpool.

Chelsea were also linked with a move for Zaha in the summer and could look to strike a bargain by picking up the winger on a free next year.