Zola Holds Out For Better Deal

Calvin looking for more money

Calvin Zola's proposed move to Shrewsbury has been thrown into doubt after Crewe boss Dario Gradi stated that Zola is only interested in a loan move if there is the chance to join any perspective club permanently. Zola appears to have ideas above his station as Gradi also revealed he was after better wages. 

The Congolese striker has been linked with a number of clubs since he was made available for loan including Bradford City and Burton Albion and held unsuccessful talks with Shrewsbury on Friday. 

Speaking to BBC Radio Stoke Gradi said: "He's still here but he has said he will be willing to go on loan if there is a permanent deal at the end of it. I think he wants an increase in wages as well but Shrewsbury weren't prepared to do that."

Zola looks unlikely to ever play for The Railwaymen again although Gradi hinted that he will use the giant forward as a last resort: "It's not the reason he wasn't in the squad today. I don't punish people like that. I will only leave him out if I think I have better to put in."

Earlier in the week it emerged that Zola, who lives on the Wirral, had been finding it difficult fitting in his training duties at the club because of childcare issues. Gradi said: "I wonder how he'd cope if he had a proper job. There are a few clubs wanting Calvin and I've said 'yes' to them all, but he keeps saying 'no'. Presumably his agent is making these calls to the clubs, but he's got a problem taking his child to school and that is controlling his life."