Manchester United are the firm favourites to win a two-club race for Wilfried Zaha, with Chelsea and Tottenham having cooled their interest. It is understood senior executives from United and Crystal Palace have held face-to-face discussions regarding a transfer for the 20-year-old, who is waiting for a fee to be agreed with one of his suitors before he negotiates any personal terms.

Although Zaha is a recognised wide player, the expected signature of Theo Walcott, who has also played most of his career as a winger, on a fresh deal at Arsenal is not thought to affect the club’s desire to bring him to the Emirates Stadium. Zaha has no preference over Arsenal or United.