Crystal Palace have reportedly won the race to sign Royale Union Saint-Gilloise defender Anan Khalaili, beating Newcastle United and several other clubs to the highly-rated Israeli international.
The 21-year-old is now expected to complete his move to Selhurst Park in the coming days after a transfer to Inter Milan collapsed earlier this summer.
Crystal Palace move agreed
According to reports from Israel and Belgium, Crystal Palace have reached an agreement to sign Khalaili, with the defender now closing in on a Premier League switch.
Sport 5 claims the deal is effectively complete, while Het Laatste Nieuws reports Palace are prepared to pay around €30 million for the versatile defender.
No official transfer fee has been confirmed.
Newcastle miss out after Inter collapse
Newcastle United were among the clubs to pursue Khalaili earlier this summer, alongside Crystal Palace.
The Magpies were handed another opportunity after Inter Milan pulled out of a proposed move following the player's medical, where an irregular heart rhythm was reportedly detected.
Despite renewed Premier League interest, Palace have now moved ahead of their rivals to secure the deal.
Versatile defender impressed last season
Although naturally a right-back, Khalaili also featured regularly as a wing-back and winger for Royale Union Saint-Gilloise last season.
He contributed six goals and six assists in 52 appearances, attracting interest from clubs across Europe with his attacking output and versatility.
His performances helped establish him as one of the Belgian Pro League's standout young defenders.
Europa League project may have proved decisive
Reports suggest Crystal Palace's qualification for the Europa League helped strengthen their position during negotiations.
Khalaili was absent from Union Saint-Gilloise's squad for the weekend victory over Westerlo, officially due to a fitness issue.
With the Belgian side due to face Bodø/Glimt in Champions League qualifying, it remains unclear whether the defender will travel or instead head to England to finalise his move.
Key Points
- Crystal Palace have reportedly agreed a deal for Anan Khalaili.
- Newcastle United were also interested in the Union Saint-Gilloise defender.
- A previous move to Inter Milan collapsed after a failed medical.
- Palace are expected to pay around €30m.
- Khalaili registered six goals and six assists in 52 appearances last season.
What's next?
Khalaili is expected to travel to England in the coming days to complete the remaining formalities of his move. Crystal Palace are now closing in on another significant summer addition after beating Newcastle United to one of Belgium's most highly-rated young talents.
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