Maccabi Haifa Nears Deal for Portuguese Winger Pedro Brazão

Israeli football club Maccabi Haifa is reportedly close to finalizing a deal to sign Portuguese winger Pedro Brazão from the Turkish second division. Brazão was notably absent from his current team, Bodrum's, squad for their league match against Erokspor on Thursday, signaling his impending departure.

Maccabi Haifa had previously expressed interest in Brazão earlier in the summer, particularly after an injury to Manuel Benson. Initial negotiations stalled due to Bodrum's asking price of nearly €2 million, which Haifa deemed too high. Brazão himself was initially hesitant to move to Israel, preferring to play in a more prominent European league, and other clubs showed interest but no deal materialized.

As European transfer windows closed, Maccabi Haifa's offer became more appealing to Brazão. The Turkish club also lowered their demands by approximately half, making the transfer financially feasible for the Israeli side. Brazão reportedly consulted with former Israeli league players, including Willian Cifrian of Maccabi Netanya and Dylan Batubinsika, who recommended the move to Haifa.

Maccabi Haifa confirmed negotiations for the winger, stating their strong need for reinforcements in that position. The club hopes to conclude the deal swiftly.