According to a report by the Croydon Advertiser, Crystal Palace is joining Chelsea FC in the race to sign Juventus striker Simone Zaza.

Reports of the Italian striker joining Crystal Palace can be traced back to January, however, in January, Crystal Palace manager Alan Pardew denied any speculation of the former Sassuolo forward joining the Eagles.

Reports from Italy suggest that the Eagles placed a bid around £20 million for the Italian striker earlier this year, which was evidently rejected by the Serie A giants.

Although Pardew turned down any speculation linking the two together in the winter, rumors of the 24-year-old joining the London side have ignited for the summer.

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Joining Crystal Palace in the race for Zaza is fellow London side Chelsea, who look to unite new Italian boss Antonio Conte with one of Italy’s hottest prospects.

Zaza had an impressive stint with Juventus ever since joining the Serie A giants in the summer from Sassuolo for a fee of €18 million. The 24-year-old made a total of 19 league appearances, scoring five goals and registering zero assists.

Both Crystal Palace and Chelsea are looking to bolster their attack after underwhelming seasons, however, with Chelsea hiring the ex-Italian International manager, Zaza may look to sign with a familiar face rather than with Crystal Palace.

Where will Zaza likely end up?

Chelsea

Crystal Palace