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 an option for Beitar Jerusalem to purchase 50% of Azu's contract for 1.5 million shekels, contingent on him playing 50% of the available minutes.

Azu is currently under contract with Maccabi Tel Aviv until 2027, with the club holding a two-year extension option, which is expected to be exercised. This extension would activate Beitar Jerusalem's purchase option. Azu, who has worn the number 23 throughout his career, previously had loan spells at MS Ashdod and Ramat Hasharon.

Beitar Jerusalem has also recently agreed to terms with Alexis Serna, further strengthening their midfield. The team has had a somewhat shaky start to the season, suffering losses to Netanya and Hapoel Tel Aviv before securing their first win against Bnei Sakhnin. The deal for Azu is considered one of the significant transfers in Israeli football this summer.