Almog Cohen Pursues Long-Term Target Ori Azoulay for Beitar Jerusalem

Beitar Jerusalem is finalizing a double signing, bringing in midfielder Alexis Serna from Colombian club Medellín and winger Ori Azoulay on loan from Maccabi Tel Aviv, with an option to buy. Both players were high on the wish list of Almog Cohen, the club's professional manager.

Cohen has been tracking Azoulay for years, dating back to his time as professional manager at Maccabi Netanya. He believes Azoulay possesses significant potential and could make a major leap forward under his guidance. Beitar Jerusalem hopes Azoulay will follow a similar trajectory to Yarin Levi, who flourished at Beitar after not featuring for Maccabi Haifa.

Maccabi Tel Aviv's willingness to lower the potential purchase price for Azoulay to NIS 1.2 million suggests they do not see a significant future for him. The deal stipulates that if Azoulay plays 50% of his available minutes, Beitar Jerusalem will have the option to purchase 50% of his contract.

"Anyone who trained with Azoulay understands how much potential this kid has. He will help Beitar a lot, hopefully, he will stay here for years to come," a club source stated. Azoulay will wear the number 23 jersey.

In other team news, Nana Antwi is increasing his training intensity and hopes to be fit for Sunday's match against Maccabi Petah Tikva. Yarden Cohen will continue to be absent. Luka Gadran will replace Liel Dari in central defense, and Adi Yona may get playing time after a long absence. The team aims to maintain its positive momentum following a victory over Bnei Sakhnin.