Palace gamble $15m on United States prodigy Zavier Gozo

Crystal Palace have moved to fill an attacking void by signing 19‑year‑old United States forward Zavier Gozo, a prospect who debuted for Real Salt Lake at 16. The reported $15 million (£11.1 million) fee and a five‑year contract, pending international clearance, signal the club’s intent to inject youthful firepower.

Deal and contract details

The transfer fee has been reported as $15 million, equivalent to £11.1 million. Gozo has agreed to a five‑year deal with Palace, which will only become effective once international clearance is obtained.

Image source, Getty ImagesImage caption, shows Gozo celebrating a goal for the MLS Next Pro side Real Monarchs. The image underscores the impression he made during his time in the United States development system.

Early career and MLS impact

Gozo joined the Real Salt Lake academy in 2021 and made his Major League Soccer debut as a 16‑year‑old in October 2023. He impressed for the MLS Next Pro side Real Monarchs before earning a senior debut for Real Salt Lake.

He has scored six goals and made four assists in RSL's first 16 league games of the year and was selected for the season’s MLS All‑Star Game, highlighting his rapid rise in American soccer.

International pedigree and Palace context

The Utah‑born forward has been capped by the United States at every level up to the under‑23s, confirming his status as a national prospect. Gozo becomes Palace’s sixth signing of the summer transfer window, following Oscar Mingueza, Takehiro Tomiyasu, Dwight McNeil, Evann Guessand and Anan Khalaili.

Palace start their Premier League season under new head coach Pierre Sage on Saturday at Everton, aiming to integrate the new arrivals quickly. The final step for Gozo is the completion of international clearance, after which he will be eligible to feature for the club.