Crystal Palace sign Morocco Under-20 World Cup winner Taha Meghni from Union Touarga

Crystal Palace have signed Moroccan defender Taha Meghni from Union Touarga in a deal the club says is the first direct transfer from the Moroccan league to a Premier League club.

The 18-year-old has joined the Crystal Palace Academy after coming through the youth system at Union Touarga, where he made his senior debut in June 2025. He featured in his side’s victory over Wydad Fes in the semi-finals of the Excellence Cup.

Palace described Meghni’s move as “unprecedented”, saying he is the first player to transfer directly from Morocco’s domestic league to a club in the Premier League.

The versatile defender can play at centre-back or right-back and made 17 first-team appearances for Union Touarga, including 15 during the previous season. He started 13 of those matches.

Meghni was also part of the Morocco squad that won the FIFA Under-20 World Cup in Chile last year, the country’s first success in the competition. At the age of 17, he played for the Morocco side that defeated Brazil, Spain, France and Argentina on their way to the title.

Since then, Meghni has progressed to Morocco’s Under-23 team. He made two international appearances in March, including a start in the 2-2 draw with Ivory Coast.

Palace said Meghni considers himself a defender with strong technical ability who also enjoys the physical side of the game. He will now join Darren Powell’s Under-21 squad and compete in Premier League 2, the Premier League International Cup and the EFL Cup.

Speaking after signing his contract, Meghni said: “Crystal Palace are one of the biggest clubs in the Premier League and around the world. They have achieved a lot in recent years, so I am very excited to start this new adventure with the club.”

Crystal Palace academy director Gary Issott said Meghni had enjoyed an outstanding 2025-26 campaign, gaining valuable experience in Morocco’s top division while helping his country win the Under-20 World Cup at only 17.

“Taha enjoyed an excellent 25-26 season, gained valuable experience in the Moroccan first division and helped Morocco win the Under-20 World Cup at only 17,” said Issott.

“He is a talented, versatile defender who impressed us with his performances, and we believe Crystal Palace is the right environment for him to continue his development. Welcome, Taha!”

Meghni spent five years at Union Touarga before completing his move to England. In an emotional farewell message posted on Instagram, he wrote: “After five wonderful years, it is time for me to start a new and important chapter in my life.”

He added: “I thank the club for believing in me, for the opportunities it gave me and for all the memories that helped me grow, both on and off the pitch. I would also like to thank my coaches for their advice, patience and confidence, which helped me develop as a player and as a person.”

“Many thanks to my team-mates and friends. We shared unforgettable moments, and some of you became like brothers to me.”

Meghni continued: “I leave with a great deal of gratitude, pride and beautiful memories. Thank you to everyone who believed in me and who continues to keep the spirit of the club alive every day.”

He concluded: “Thank you for everything, Union Tangier. I will always be proud to wear these colours. A new page is opening, but the story continues. Forever grateful.”