Crystal Palace Close to £11m Signing of US Youth International Zavier Gozo

Crystal Palace are nearing the completion of an £11 million deal to sign 19-year-old United States youth international Zavier Gozo from Major League Soccer club Real Salt Lake. The transfer forms a key part of new manager Pierre Sage’s strategy to strengthen the squad ahead of the upcoming Premier League season.

Gozo, who has represented the US at various youth levels up to the Under-23 team, was notably absent from Real Salt Lake’s recent fixture due to an "excused absence," which strongly indicated that his transfer to Palace is imminent. The club has been closely monitoring Gozo’s development over time, identifying him as a potential successor to Daniel Muñoz in the right wing-back position.

This signing addresses Crystal Palace’s need for cover following the departure of long-serving right-back Nathaniel Clyne, who left at the end of his contract, and the sale of Danny Imray to Wrexham for a reported fee in the region of £5 million. These changes have created a clear vacancy in Palace’s defensive lineup that Gozo is expected to fill.

Palace’s connection with Real Salt Lake is strengthened by co-owner David Blitzer, who holds stakes in both clubs. This dual ownership has likely facilitated negotiations and allowed Palace to keep a close eye on Gozo’s progress in MLS, ensuring a well-informed recruitment decision.

Alongside targeting Gozo, Crystal Palace remain determined to retain key England midfielder Wharton, indicating the club’s ambition to maintain squad stability while integrating new talent under Pierre Sage’s leadership.

With the transfer close to being finalized, Crystal Palace will now focus on integrating Zavier Gozo into the squad as they prepare for the new season. Their next priority will be to sustain momentum in the transfer market while ensuring the team is ready for the Premier League’s opening fixtures.

Source: theguardian.com