The Union Saint-Gilloise is set to receive a substantial financial boost following the transfer of Israeli winger Anan Khalaili to Crystal Palace. The Premier League club confirmed on Saturday that Khalaili had signed a five-year contract with them, with the Brussels-based side expected to net a fee of €24.5 million, plus potential add-ons.
From Israeli talent to Premier League promise
Khalaili, aged 21, joined Union Saint-Gilloise from Israeli club Maccabi Haifa in the summer of 2024. Since then, he has established himself as a key player at the Park Duden stadium, primarily operating as a right-winger. His contributions were pivotal in securing the club’s first-ever Belgian league title in the 2024-2025 season, followed by a victory in the Belgian Cup the following year.
Champions League impact and international recognition
During Union Saint-Gilloise’s maiden Champions League campaign, Khalaili made a strong impression, netting three goals—including two against Marseille and one against Atalanta. The young international, with 16 caps for Israel, tallied eight goals in nearly 100 appearances for the Brussels side. His season began with a triumph in the Belgian Super Cup against Club Bruges, and he featured in the first leg of the Champions League third qualifying round against Norwegian side Bodø/Glimt (3-3). However, he was omitted from the squad for the opening league match of the season against Westerlo (a 5-1 win) and the second leg against Bodø/Glimt.
Unfulfilled ambitions and new horizons
The transfer to Crystal Palace marks a significant milestone in Khalaili’s career, following an earlier setback when a move to Inter Milan collapsed due to failed medical tests. His departure leaves a void at Union Saint-Gilloise, but the financial windfall from his transfer will provide the club with resources to rebuild and strengthen the squad.
