Crystal palace signs israeli winger from union saint-gilloise for €24.5m

Crystal Palace lands Israeli sensation Anan Khalaili in record deal

One of Belgium’s brightest football talents is set to take the Premier League stage after Crystal Palace secured a commanding five-year deal for Union Saint-Gilloise winger Anan Khalaili. The move, priced at €24.5 million with additional performance-related incentives, was finalized on Saturday, marking a significant financial boost for the Brussels-based club.

From Park Duden to Selhurst Park: A meteoric rise

Khalaili, aged 21, arrived at Union Saint-Gilloise from Maccabi Haifa in the summer of 2024 and quickly established himself as a key player. Operating primarily on the right flank, he became a cornerstone of the squad that clinched the Belgian title in 2024-25—their first championship in nearly a century—and added the Belgian Cup in the following season. His performances did not go unnoticed, as he contributed with eight goals in under 100 appearances for the club.

On the European stage, Khalaili made his mark in Union’s maiden Champions League campaign, netting three goals—including crucial strikes against Marseille (twice) and Atalanta. His international credentials, with 16 caps for Israel, further solidified his reputation as one of the continent’s most exciting young wingers.

A transfer marred by setbacks and secured by opportunity

The path to Crystal Palace was not without its challenges. Earlier this year, a proposed move to Inter Milan collapsed after the Israeli failed to pass medical examinations. However, the Premier League side’s Champions League-winning experience from last season proved a decisive factor in clinching Khalaili’s signature. The young winger had already made his presence felt in Union’s European adventures, including a Super Cup victory over Club Brugge and a dramatic 3-3 draw with Norwegian side Bodø/Glimt in the Champions League qualifiers. Though he missed the opening league fixture against Westerlo (a 5-1 win) and the Champions League return leg against Bodø/Glimt, his contributions earlier in the campaign were undeniable.