Maccabi Haifa Holds Firm on Guy Melamed Amid Transfer Interest

Maccabi Haifa has stated that striker Guy Melamed will not be released at this time, despite interest from Maccabi Tel Aviv and Maccabi Netanya. While both clubs have expressed interest in the player, who was Maccabi Haifa's top scorer last season, no official offer has been submitted to the club. Melamed himself has also not requested to leave.

Maccabi Haifa officials are conveying that Melamed will still receive playing time, as the team's other strikers have not yet fully established themselves during the pre-season. This is the official stance, though speculation suggests a highly attractive trade that would significantly strengthen Maccabi Haifa's squad could potentially change the club's position. Melamed is considered a top-tier Israeli player, a rarity in the current market.

Furthermore, Maccabi Haifa is hesitant to strengthen a direct rival in the league's upper echelon, a practice they have avoided in recent years. This reluctance is amplified by Melamed's status as a player who is still part of the club's professional plans, even if not at the very top of the hierarchy.