Maccabi Netanya Nears Deal for Colombian Midfielder Johan Torres

Maccabi Netanya has confirmed they are on the verge of signing Colombian defensive midfielder Johan Torres, a player previously sought by Beitar Jerusalem. The club has submitted a bid of 400,000 euros for the player, with agent Avi Nimni facilitating the deal. This move comes amid fan criticism regarding the team's lack of new signings and addresses the need for a high-level defensive midfielder.

Previously, the club struggled to secure transfer targets due to protracted negotiations, particularly under owner Ross Klastin's increased reliance on Max DeGilio following Gil Lev's reduced role. Despite a recent decisive 4-1 victory over Beitar Jerusalem, coach Roni Levy remains focused on strengthening the squad further.

Lev is still pushing for the acquisition of a foreign winger and a foreign center-back before the transfer window closes in 11 days. He is also considering lineup changes for the upcoming match against Hapoel Haifa, potentially reinstating Kareem Jaber to the starting eleven, which would shift Amit Cohen to left-back. Bassam Zaarura has increased his training intensity and may be included in the squad.