Anan Khalaily Becomes Most Expensive Israeli Footballer Signing with Crystal Palace

Anan Khalaily, the 21-year-old Israeli winger, has signed a five-year contract with Crystal Palace in the English Premier League, with an option for an additional year. The transfer fee paid to Union Saint-Gilloise is £21 million, making Khalaily the most expensive Israeli footballer in history. This move follows extensive negotiations and interest from several European clubs, including Inter Milan, whose deal fell through after Khalaily failed medical tests.

Khalaily joins Crystal Palace after a standout season at Union Saint-Gilloise, where he made 46 appearances across all competitions, scoring six goals and providing five assists. He notably expanded his versatility by also playing as a right-back. In the Belgian league, he scored three goals and assisted five times in 38 matches, but his most impressive performances came in the UEFA Champions League, scoring three goals in seven games, including a brace against Marseille. ESPN included him in their Champions League team of the group stage.

Khalaily transferred to Union Saint-Gilloise from Maccabi Haifa in summer 2024 and quickly became a sought-after talent in Europe. His strong performances in domestic and European competitions boosted his market value and attracted interest from top leagues. Now at Crystal Palace, Khalaily aims to establish himself as a key player in one of the world's most competitive leagues and further his career on a major international stage.