Israeli Soccer League Eyes Return of Overseas Players as European Transfer Window Closes

With the European football transfer window shut, Israel's Premier League has a two-week extension until September 16th to sign new players. This provides an opportunity for Israeli clubs to acquire talent that may be falling down the pecking order at their current European or international teams. Recent high-profile returns to Israel include Tomer Yosefi and Sean Weissman to Beitar Jerusalem, Omri Glazer to Maccabi Haifa, Idan Nachmias to Hapoel Be'er Sheva, and Gabi Kanyukovsky to Maccabi Tel Aviv.

Several notable Israeli players currently abroad could potentially make a move back. Liel Abada of Charlotte FC, despite his talent, has struggled for consistent starts and his high salary may be a barrier, though a return to Israel could be beneficial given his past experiences. Dean David of Yokohama F. Marinos has a contract until the end of the season and has been sidelined by a minor injury, but his potential impact on an Israeli championship contender is significant.

Other players under consideration include Ofri Arad at Steaua Bucharest, who has seen limited playing time since returning from a long-term injury and could be a valuable addition to Maccabi Haifa. Muhamed Abu Fani at Red Star Belgrade is reportedly considering a departure after a coaching change, though he is currently registered for the Conference League.

Free agent Eli Dasa, a highly-rated defender, could be an option if an Israeli club is willing to invest significantly. Ramzi Safouri of Antalyaspor, a regular starter in Turkey, is nearing the end of his contract and has had past salary issues, potentially making him an offensive catalyst for a top Israeli team. Yehab Gurfinkel of AEK Larnaca, a talented left-back, was a target for Hapoel Tel Aviv earlier in the transfer window.