The Union Saint-Gilloise is set to receive a substantial financial boost following the departure of their standout winger, Anan Khalaili, who has signed a five-year contract with Crystal Palace. The Premier League side confirmed the transfer on Saturday, with the Brussels-based club expected to pocket a fee of €24.5 million, plus potential add-ons.
Khalaili, a 21-year-old Israeli international, had been a key player for the Union since joining from Maccabi Haifa in the summer of 2024. His impact was immediate, helping the club secure their first league title in 90 years during the 2024-2025 season and lifting the Belgian Cup the following year. Primarily deployed on the right flank, he quickly established himself as an indispensable asset at the Park Duden.
The road to Crystal Palace
Earlier this summer, Khalaili’s transfer to Inter Milan collapsed after he failed medical tests. Undeterred, the young star has now finalized a move to Crystal Palace, who secured the Conference League title last season. The London-based club’s involvement adds prestige to the deal, signaling their ambition to strengthen their squad with emerging talent.
A standout season in Europe
Khalaili’s performances have not gone unnoticed in European competitions. During Union Saint-Gilloise’s debut Champions League campaign, he netted three goals—including two against Marseille and one against Atalanta. Across nearly 100 appearances for the Belgian side, he has contributed eight goals, showcasing his consistency and attacking prowess.
This season began strongly for Khalaili, as he featured in the European Super Cup victory over Club Brugge and played in the first leg of the third qualifying round against Norway’s Bodø/Glimt, which ended 3-3. However, he was omitted from the squad for the opening league match against Westerlo (a 5-1 win) and the return leg against Bodø/Glimt, hinting at a transition phase within the team.
With his move to Crystal Palace now official, Khalaili embarks on a new chapter in his career, leaving behind a legacy at Union Saint-Gilloise while stepping into the competitive arena of the Premier League.
