Hapoel Ironi Kiryat Shmona Nears Deal for Romanian Striker Alexandru Pop

Hapoel Ironi Kiryat Shmona is reportedly close to finalizing a deal for Romanian striker Alexandru Pop, who is expected to replace Adrian Ugrinic. The team is seeking to bolster its offense following a disappointing 4-2 loss to Hapoel Jerusalem on Saturday, their second defeat of the Israeli Premier League season. Pop, currently with Dinamo Bucharest, was previously linked with a move to Hapoel Be'er Sheva.

The club's professional staff has reviewed Pop's performances and decided to move forward with negotiations. Reports from Romania indicate that Pop played his final match for Dinamo Bucharest, coming on as a substitute in the 88th minute of a derby against Steaua Bucharest. Pop, 26, a native of Buenos Aires, developed his career in Romania and was sold to Dinamo Bucharest for 125,000 euros in the winter of 2025. Last season, he scored five goals and provided two assists, becoming a regular starter in the latter stages of the upper playoff. He is known for his speed and versatility, capable of playing on the wing. Pop is in good form, having started seven games this season and scoring and assisting against Universitatea Craiova. His current team, Dinamo Bucharest, leads the Romanian league.

Pop's potential arrival aims to fill the void left by Adrian Ugrinic, who was sold to Hapoel Be'er Sheva. The club sought a replacement of similar caliber, a dominant striker in good playing condition.