Maccabi Haifa May Sell Guy Melamed to Rival Hapoel Tel Aviv

Maccabi Tel Aviv is intensifying efforts to sign striker Guy Melamed, with club officials reportedly very keen on the transfer. Sports commentators discussed the ongoing negotiations and the potential for Maccabi Haifa to agree to a deal with a direct rival.

According to reports, Maccabi Tel Aviv is aware of the financial terms and is determined to acquire Melamed. If Maccabi Haifa wishes to keep him, the transfer is unlikely, but if they are open to selling, the move could proceed. Maccabi Tel Aviv's coach, Steven Gerrard, is said to be particularly eager to sign Melamed.

Commentators noted that Gerrard is well-informed about the situation and is actively pursuing new signings, including James Tavernier, who is expected to sign, and previously secured Giorgi Kvilitaia. Despite Maccabi Tel Aviv's aggressive transfer activity, they do not have European competition this season, allowing them more time in the transfer window, which closes in two weeks.

The situation presents a complex dilemma for Maccabi Haifa, especially if Melamed were to succeed at Maccabi Tel Aviv. This scenario is considered different from previous player transfers, particularly given Maccabi Haifa's current circumstances.

One analyst suggested that Melamed, who was initially convinced to join Maccabi Haifa by Barak Bakhar and Lior Refaelov but later faced difficulties under coach Diego Flores, might be transferred to Hapoel Tel Aviv. The analyst expressed surprise if Maccabi Haifa were to agree to sell Melamed to Maccabi Tel Aviv, implying a preference for a deal with Hapoel Tel Aviv.