Beitar Jerusalem Completes Record Signing Under New Transfer Policy

Beitar Jerusalem is set to finalize the purchase of Alexis Serna for 550,000 euros, a significant 45% reduction from the original 1 million euro asking price by Colombian club Medellin. This acquisition marks a continuation of the club's new transfer strategy under professional director Almog Cohen, implemented since the summer preceding the 2024/25 season.

Cohen, appointed in February 2024, has overseen a period of gradual improvement for Beitar, culminating in a second-place finish last season and reaching the third qualifying round of the Conference League this year. The club has focused on signing players who had limited opportunities at larger clubs, such as Yarin Levi, Ziv Ben Shimol, and Uri Azou, alongside players from less conventional leagues.

Serna and Bryan Caravalli arrived from the Colombian league, while Jhon Busco Calo came from the Swedish league and Luka Gadrani from the Georgian league. Beitar also secured several prominent players on free transfers, including Omer Atzili, Sean Weissman, and Tomer Yosefi.

Serna's transfer makes him the most expensive signing under Cohen's tenure, a period characterized by financial efficiency and profitability compared to previous ownerships. He is the club's most expensive acquisition since Yarden Shua, who was bought for 1.4 million euros in October 2020. This approach contrasts sharply with other top clubs who are spending unprecedented amounts on players.

Domestically, Beitar prioritizes young talent, identifying potential and development fees. The club has demonstrated an ability to scout promising young Israeli players, including Yarin Levi, Daniel Workman, and Noam Moucha. This scouting extends to international markets, with Cohen reportedly identifying Serna six months before his arrival.

Despite some unsuccessful signings like Ailson Tavares and Hassund Gonzalez, Beitar's strategy has yielded results, moving the team from relegation battles to championship contention within two years on a budget of less than two million euros over three seasons.