Real Salt Lake announced Tuesday that homegrown winger Zavier Gozo has transferred to English Premier League side Crystal Palace for a reported club-record $15 million fee. The 19-year-old Utah native signed a five-year deal with the South London club, a move that follows a standout 2026 season for the rising American star.
A Record-Breaking Transfer
The transfer marks a significant milestone for the Real Salt Lake academy, which Gozo joined in 2021. According to MLSSoccer.com, the deal includes a sell-on percentage retained by Real Salt Lake. In addition to the transfer fee, the move sees the young attacker join fellow U.S. international Chris Richards at Crystal Palace.
Real Salt Lake sporting director Kurt Schmid praised the player's progression from the club's academy system. "Watching Zavier grow from our Academy into the player he is today has been a privilege for everyone at Real Salt Lake," Schmid said. He noted that Gozo earned the opportunity through his "relentless work ethic and character" and credited the support of teammates, coaches, and staff throughout his journey through the Academy, Real Monarchs, and the first team.
Breakout 2026 Season
Gozo's departure comes amidst a dominant 2026 campaign in Major League Soccer. According to Crystal Palace, the attacker recorded six goals and four assists in his first 16 league games of the year. MLSSoccer.com reported that he co-leads Real Salt Lake with 11 total goal contributions—six goals and five assists—across 16 games while playing as a wingback and attacker.
His performance this season earned him a selection for the 2026 MLS All-Star Game. Since making his Major League Soccer debut at age 16 in October 2023, Gozo has made 50 appearances for Real Salt Lake, totaling 10 goals and nine assists.
Premier League Ambitions
The move to England represents a long-held ambition for the Utah-born winger. Crystal Palace Chairman Steve Parish expressed excitement regarding the signing, stating, "It is great to welcome such an exciting young talent to Crystal Palace Football Club. I am looking forward to seeing what Zavier can achieve with us during his time in South London."
Gozo expressed his enthusiasm for the transition to the Premier League, describing it as the "dream of any footballer." He told Crystal Palace that he was excited by the club's project and its recent successes. Gozo also shared a sentimental farewell to his home state, noting that despite his international career, "Utah will always be part of who I am."
International Recognition
Gozo has established himself as a prominent figure for the United States youth national teams, having represented the country at every level from Under-15 to Under-23. He was a key member of the U.S. side that reached the 2024 CONCACAF U20s Championship final and the 2025 U20 World Cup quarterfinals, where he recorded two goals and one assist.
His recent form caught the attention of U.S. Men's National Team head coach Mauricio Pochettino, who included Gozo on the team's preliminary roster for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Palace Summer Arrivals
Gozo becomes the sixth arrival for Crystal Palace during the current summer transfer window. He joins a list of recent signings that includes Óscar Mingueza, Takehiro Tomiyasu, Dwight McNeil, Evann Guessand, and Anan Khalaili. His move is subject to international clearance.
