Maccabi Tel Aviv Targets Beitar Jerusalem Defender Yarden Cohen

Following the departure of Roy Revivo, who signed with Spanish club Elche, Maccabi Tel Aviv has identified Beitar Jerusalem defender Yarden Cohen as a prime candidate to join the club for the upcoming season. Cohen, 29, who missed the start of the season due to injury, has made significant professional strides in the past year and is eligible to negotiate with other teams starting in January. Maccabi Tel Aviv has already conveyed initial interest to Cohen's representatives. Hapoel Be'er Sheva is also reportedly interested in the player, who developed in Maccabi Haifa's youth system.

Beitar Jerusalem intends to try and extend Cohen's contract, but a substantial offer from Maccabi Tel Aviv could persuade him to move to Kiryat Shalom. Meanwhile, Maccabi Tel Aviv's pursuit of Guy Melamed as a replacement for Cid Abufarah, who transferred to Colorado Rapids, has been rebuffed. Maccabi Haifa has clearly communicated that they will not approve Melamed's transfer.

Maccabi Haifa is awaiting the completion of Kerwin Andrade's loan move to the Brazilian league before officially announcing the signing of English right-back James Tavernier. Tavernier arrived on a free transfer, passed his medicals at Kiryat Shalom, and has signed a one-year contract with an option for an additional season.