Palace Land £21m Star As Tottenham Near Blockbuster Gakpo Deal

Crystal Palace have completed the signing of Israel international Anan Khalaili from Belgian side Union Saint-Gilloise as the club continues to strengthen its squad ahead of the new season.

According to Ireporter Online, Palace agreed a reported £21 million deal for the 21-year-old, who is capable of playing as a right-back, wing-back or winger. The club confirmed the transfer on Saturday, August 15, with Khalaili signing a long-term contract.

Khalaili joined Union Saint-Gilloise in 2024 and played an important role in the Belgian club’s historic success, helping them secure their first Pro League title in 90 years as well as the Belgian Cup.

The versatile player also featured in the UEFA Champions League last season, scoring three of his six goals in the competition.

His arrival makes him Crystal Palace’s fifth signing of the summer transfer window. The Eagles have also added Takehiro Tomiyasu and Oscar Mingueza as free agents, while Dwight McNeil joined in a deal involving Brennan Johnson. Evann Guessand has also returned from Aston Villa on a season-long loan.

Meanwhile, Tottenham Hotspur are reportedly closing in on the signing of Liverpool forward Cody Gakpo after reaching an agreement in principle with the Dutch international.

Gakpo is said to have agreed personal terms with Tottenham, with manager Roberto De Zerbi reportedly keen to bring the attacker into his squad.

The 27-year-old joined Liverpool from PSV Eindhoven in a deal worth up to £45 million and has since scored 50 goals in 180 appearances for the Reds. During his spell at Anfield, he has also won the Premier League and Carabao Cup.

Liverpool are reportedly demanding more than £60 million for Gakpo but are unwilling to approve his departure until a replacement is secured.

The Merseyside club has held discussions with Paris Saint-Germain over Bradley Barcola as a possible replacement, although Liverpool are reportedly reluctant to meet the French club’s valuation.