Toronto FC acquires midfielder Palacio from Real Salt Lake in cash deal

TORONTO — Toronto FC bolstered its midfield Monday, acquiring Nelson Palacio from Real Salt Lake in a cash-for-player trade.

The MLS club sent $1.1 million in cash and could pay up to an additional $550,000 if Palacio reaches performance incentives.

Real Salt Lake will retain the right to a percentage of any future transfer fee involving Palacio.

The 25-year-old Colombian made 55 MLS appearances over three seasons with Salt Lake.

The defensive midfielder spent last season on loan with FC Zurich in the Swiss Super League, making 34 appearances across all competitions.

Palacio has represented Colombia at the under-23 level and has one appearance with the senior national team.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published July 6, 2026.

The Canadian Press