Motta was superb as Lazio reached the Coppa Italia final with a penalty shootout semifinal win against Atalanta in midweek.
Zoff told Il Corriere dello Sport: "We've always had some great goalkeepers, at least three or four capable of aspiring to the national team.
"However, it's still early days for him; he needs to continue working to improve. What struck me against Atalanta? His calm, his expression when saving. Doing important things with a certain ease. This is clearly synonymous with quality.
"He's shown his strength, he's done simple things so well that they've truly been impressive. Imagine, a goalkeeper who stands out by doing simple yet impressive things (laughs).
"It's true that there was an emergency, but (coach Maurizio) Sarri was good and courageous in trusting him, offering a young goalkeeper who certainly has all the qualities."