Maccabi Netanya Nears Deal for Brazilian Winger Isaac

Israeli soccer club Maccabi Netanya has confirmed negotiations for Brazilian winger Isaac, who was first reported as a target on Thursday. The proposed deal involves a one-season loan from Brazilian club Athletico Paranaense, with a monthly salary of approximately 15,000 euros. Should Netanya wish to purchase Isaac, they would be obligated to sign him for three seasons.

Owner Ronny Rosenthal has given the green light for the transfer and instructed the club to continue seeking a midfielder, potentially at the expense of William Cyprian. Cyprian is reportedly demanding his full salary in exchange for his departure, a request Netanya has refused. The club has decided not to freeze Cyprian's contract to avoid potential legal action.

In other player movements, Sahar Taghi, released on Thursday, received two months' salary in advance for waiving his contract. Itai Ben Shabbat requested Netanya cover the difference in salary offered by Hapoel Petah Tikva, but the club declined. Ben Shabbat or Saba Hudgeani may remain if no additional foreign defender is signed, though neither is in the club's long-term plans. If a foreign defender is not acquired, Netanya might consider signing another foreign player in January.

Due to Aziz Ouattara's injury, Basem Zaroura is expected to return to the starting lineup for the upcoming match against Hapoel Ramat Gan on Monday in Rehovot.