Real Salt Lake sign midfielder Nelson Palacio from Atletico Nacional | OneFootball

Real Salt Lake have made an addition to their midfield, signing Nelson Palacio from Colombian side Atletico Nacional.

Palacio joins the Western Conference team under one of their three U22 initiative roster slots on a three year contract with club options to extend for 2027 and 2028. The 22-year-old arrives from Atletico Nacional, where he's managed three goals in over 80 appearances since July of 2021.

"Nelson’s addition represents another fantastic piece for our roster for both 2023 and beyond,” Real Salt Lake President Elliot Fall stated.

"Providing another high-level option to our already excellent midfield, Nelson’s athleticism, composure, and ball-playing ability will provide an excellent complement to every other player in our midfield.

“Nelson’s acquisition is consistent with our strategy of adding talent that fits both short-term needs and long-term quality. Nelson has enjoyed quite a bit of success with his boyhood club in Colombia, and he arrives in Utah excited to contribute to our pursuit of silverware this year, and surely in the future as he integrates."

Palacio joins an already stacked midfield that boasts the likes of Braian Ojeda, Pablo Ruiz, Carlos Gomez, Diego Luna, and Jasper Loffelsend, as RSL look to mount a strong charge to the postseason for remainder of 2023.

RSL, who are currently sixth in the Western Conference with 27 points from 20 games played, are set to take on the struggling Toronto FC on July 1. Palacio will be able to make his debut on July 8 against Orlando City at America First Field, after MLS' secondary transfer window opens on July 5.