In the world of soccer, especially during transfer windows, it’s common to see well-known European clubs showing interest in young prospects from lower leagues.
However, this targeting often happens when the young player has less than six months left on his contract, leaving him to negotiate as a free agent. I know it’s not fair, but that’s the sport.
We’ve recently discussed the case of Julian Hall and Olympique Marseille. Nevertheless, there is a new departure of a Real Salt Lake prospect to the Premier League side Crystal Palace.
In what could be categorized as a great deal.
Zavier Gozo transfer to Crystal Palace on a solid deal
The truth is, it was only a matter of time before a big team from one of Europe’s top five leagues set its eyes on the great prospect RSL had in its ranks.
Some will say that it would have been better for him to go to clubs like Manchester City, Manchester United, or Liverpool, but there is something they don’t realize that makes this signing for the player ten times better than if he had gone to one of the so-called “Big Six” teams.
Why? Because the USMNT youngster needs playing time, and at Crystal Palace, he will have that opportunity.
If he had joined one of England’s top teams, he likely would have been relegated to the bench, left out of the matchday squad, or sent out on loan in the long run.
This season with RSL, Gozo played 16 games, recording six goals and four assists. Although their numbers are not outstanding, let’s remember he is 19 years old, and he plays as a right winger.
That's why this case is like that of certain players who, if you look at the statistics, have good numbers, but they could be better.
Now, translated onto the field, they are dominant in 1v1 situations and have an offensive determination that catches the attention of any team that plays with wingers, as Palace does.
While also adding that, RSL did a great business by selling him for $15 million. The truth is that Gozo has a bright future, or that’s what everyone expects from him, but it wouldn’t be the first time that it hasn't been the case.
So selling him for more than 10 million is a great move by Real Salt Lake, as they not only gain good money but also open the possibility of replacing him with an experienced player or adding another youngster to the starting lineup.
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