Crystal Palace Sign Anan Khalaili on Long-Term Deal

Crystal Palace have made a long-term bet on Anan Khalaili, landing the Israel international on a contract running through to 2031.

The Eagles are understood to have paid around £21m for the 21-year-old, a modern hybrid who can operate both as a full-back and a winger. It is a sizeable outlay, but one backed by recent evidence: Khalaili arrives from Union Saint-Gilloise as a league and cup winner.

Since joining the Belgian side in 2024, he helped drive a historic surge. Union Saint-Gilloise claimed their first Belgian Pro League title in 90 years and added a Belgian Cup to cap a landmark season. Khalaili did not just ride that wave; he contributed, especially under European lights.

Three of his six goals last season came in the Champions League, a return that immediately strengthens Palace’s hand as they prepare for Europa League football. European know-how is suddenly a live asset at Selhurst Park, not a distant ambition.

Khalaili has made no secret of how long he has had his eye on England’s top flight.

"I have followed the Premier League for a long time, it's a new challenge for me," he said. "And Crystal Palace I like, because I have followed them for a long time. They have deserved to win three trophies and I want to do more."

Those are the words of a player who is not arriving just to make up the numbers. Palace, under Pierre Sage, are clearly building with intent. Khalaili becomes the fifth signing of the summer, another piece in a squad being reshaped for domestic battles and Thursday nights in Europe.

A young, European-tested wide defender committing until 2031 sends a clear message: Palace are planning to stay in this conversation for a while.