Chelsea lead chase for Zaha as he engages agent to broker Palace exit (Mail)

Chelsea’s hopes of signing Wilfried Zaha have been boosted by the Crystal Palace forward engaging Pini Zahavi to broker his exit from Selhurst Park, according to Dailymail.

The Israeli super-agent has excellent relationships with many at Chelsea and is even close to Roman Abramovich, having been instrumental in the deal that saw him buy the club from Ken Bates 17 years ago.

Zaha served notice of his intention to split with his long-term agent Will Salthouse last September, due to frustration at being unable to secure a move during the summer window following a £52million bid from Everton and interest from Arsenal.

The 26-year-old remains under contract to Salthouse’s Unique Sports Management until this summer, however.

As a result Salthouse will be entitled to compensation, with the matter to be resolved at a private arbitration hearing.

Chelsea are free to pursue Zaha this month after their FIFA transfer ban was lifted, although they may have to wait until the summer as Palace hold out for a fee of at least £80m.