Exclusive: Future USMNT Star? Real Salt Lake’s Zavier Gozo on the Verge of European Leap

Zavier Gozo, a standout product of the prestigious Real Salt Lake (RSL) academy, has rapidly evolved into a tactical nightmare for MLS defenders. 

At just 18 years old, Gozo’s rare combination of explosive pace, elite physical profile, and icy composure in front of goal has catapulted him to the very top of European scouting shortlists. 

The summer of 2026 is now widely expected to be the moment he takes a massive leap to the world’s biggest stage.

The Leverage of a "Crown Jewel"

Real Salt Lake management views Gozo as the ultimate "crown jewel" of their development-and-sale project. 

While the club is open to a summer departure, they are operating from a position of immense strength.

The Price Tag

Gozo is signed until December 31, 2027, and RSL holds a two-year extension option. This contractual security gives the Utah-based side massive leverage at the negotiating table.

RSL is expected to demand an initial guaranteed fee in the €10M–€12 million range. With performance-based add-ons and sell-on clauses, the total package could easily climb toward €18 million.

The European Auction

The rumour mill confirms widespread interest across the continent's top five leagues. 

In the Premier League, Aston Villa, Brighton, and Bournemouth are all reportedly keeping tabs on Gozo. Aston Villa aims to replicate their success with the Jhon Duran deal, using their MLS expertise to integrate Gozo into a high-level rotation. Brighton, masters of talent identification, see him as a perfect fit for their system in the future.

In La Liga, Atletico Madrid and Villarreal are also said to be interested. Diego Simeone is reportedly impressed by Gozo’s high-pressing work rate, while Villarreal plan to pitch their world-class "develop-and-sell" model to the youngster.

In Ligue 1, Monaco and Marseille are tracking him. French clubs view his raw athleticism as an ideal profile for the physical demands of the league.

In other MLS related transfer news, FC Dallas’ striker Petar Musa is attracting serious European interest, with Atalanta and Lazio reportedly monitoring the 27-year-old closely; the MLS club could command a fee in excess of €20M if a deal materialises.

Future of the USMNT

Tactically, this move is more than just a transfer; it is a testament to the rising global status of MLS. 

Insiders already label Gozo as the "future key to the USMNT attack." Whether he lands at a development-focused club like Brighton or a giant like Atletico Madrid, his exit from RSL seems inevitable as he seeks to prove his worth on European soil.

While no concrete talks have yet taken place with any of the clubs mentioned, Gozo’s talent and potential suggest that bids are likely to emerge later in the year if he continues his upward trajectory in MLS.