Real Salt Lake forward and highly rated MLS star Zavier Gozo for a fee in the region of £12 million. James Savundra broke the story that Gozo has been given permission to travel to England to complete his medical today, ahead of signing a five year deal in South London. 

Gozo has been highly tipped to be a huge player for the USMNT in the future, and Palace feel they have signed him for an excellent price as they look to invest into the future of the forward line. 

Gozo is a 19-year-old versatile right sided player, who favours attacking. His goal catalogue for Real Salt Lake in the MLS so far this season has been excellent, and we heard from MLS expert Starsnstripesfc to get the full breakdown on his move and what Palace fans can expect. 

Gozo has been praised heavily not only for his prospect as a future star on the pitch, but also for his contribution to the local society and how down to earth he is. 

MLS coverage cited that “when you get a chance to watch Zavier Gozo in person, you take that opportunity.” 

This is an excellent signing for Palace, and one which, not necessarily immediately, but in the long term will certainly show its benefits on the pitch. 

The suggestion is that Gozo is being signed as depth for the forward line, although he has played at wing back at times for Real Salt Lake this season due to their system favoring wingbacks over wingers. 

His signing also opens the door for Romain Esse’s departure, with Belgian side Club Brugge still in direct contact with Palace about a move for the 21-year-old who has struggled to impress during pre-season. 

Selling Esse will also clear some financial room for Palace across the remainder of the window.