Crystal Palace close in on US youth star Zavier Gozo and insist Wharton stays

According to The Guardian, Crystal Palace are closing in on the signing of United States youth international Zavier Gozo. The 19-year-old Real Salt Lake man is set for an £11m move to south London, with new manager Pierre Sage looking to strengthen his squad before the new season.

Gozo, who has represented the US at youth levels up to Under-23, was left out of his side's match on Tuesday due to an 'excused absence' as the transfer nears. Palace have tracked the player for some time, aided by the cross-ownership links with David Blitzer, and see him as a potential successor to Daniel Muñoz at right wing-back.

The move would provide cover after Nathaniel Clyne's departure at the end of his contract and the sale of Danny Imray to Wrexham for a fee reported to be around £5m. Palace are also determined to keep hold of England midfielder Wharton, while Chelsea are reported to be close to a deal for Rayo Vallecano's Chavarria.