Beitar Jerusalem Secures Midfielder Ori Azu on Loan from Maccabi Tel Aviv

Beitar Jerusalem has finalized a deal to acquire midfielder Ori Azu from Maccabi Tel Aviv on loan for the upcoming season. Azu, who struggled to secure consistent playing time at Maccabi Tel Aviv, will join Beitar Jerusalem under coach Almog Cohen. The transfer agreement includes a purchase option for Beitar Jerusalem, contingent on Azu playing 50% of his potential minutes. If this condition is met, Beitar can acquire 50% of his contract for 1.5 million shekels. Azu is currently under contract with Maccabi Tel Aviv until 2027, with the club holding an option to extend his contract by two years, which is expected to be exercised. This extension would make Beitar's purchase option relevant.

Azu previously played for Maccabi Tel Aviv, wearing the number 23, which he is expected to continue wearing at Beitar. He has had loan spells at MS Ashdod, with whom he was relegated from the top league, and Ramat Hasharon in the National League, where he performed well. Beitar Jerusalem has also strengthened its midfield by agreeing to terms with Alexis Serna. The team has had a slow start to the season, suffering losses to Netanya and Hapoel Tel Aviv, but secured their first points with a 1-0 victory over Bnei Sakhnin.