RSL sign Colombian midfielder Nelson Palacio

Nelson Palacio joins RSL from Atlético Nacional

Courtesy of Real Salt Lake

June 29, 2023

Real Salt Lake have signed Colombian midfielder Nelson Palacio to their roster.

The 22 year old defensive midfielder joins RSL from Colombian side Atlético Nacional, where he made over 70 appearances since 2020. He signed to one of RSL's U22 Initiative slots. Players signed to one of these slots (who are aged 21-25) have a maximum salary budget charge of $200,000.

Palacio arrived in Utah on Sunday and will start training with the team on Thursday, June 29. He's known for his defensive approach to the midfield, which has been a need for RSL the last several seasons. He will wear number 13 on his shirt.

He joins fellow Colombian players Chicho Arango, Andres Gomez, and Brayan Vera on RSL's roster. Palancio and Arango will be available for MLS games after the summer transfer window opens on July 5, with RSL's first game being a home match against Orlando City SC on Saturday, July 8.