Beitar Jerusalem Signs Colombian Midfielder Alexis Serna

Beitar Jerusalem has officially announced the signing of Colombian midfielder Alexis Serna, 28, from Independiente Medellín for a transfer fee of 600,000 euros. This marks Serna's first move outside of Colombia and into European football. The club stated that Serna brings experience, power, and midfield quality, aiming to become a central figure and contribute to the team's aspirations.

Serna arrived in Israel on Friday and is expected to join training immediately. He is described as an intense midfielder who effectively joins the attack from the second line. Last season in Colombia, he scored three goals and provided two assists. He is the second foreign player signed under head coach Almog Cohen and the first from outside the Colombian league.

In parallel, Beitar Jerusalem is finalizing the acquisition of Ori Azu from Maccabi Tel Aviv on loan with an option to buy. Cohen, who has followed Azu since his time at Maccabi Netanya, believes he can significantly develop the player. Maccabi Tel Aviv has agreed to reduce the future purchase price to 1.2 million shekels. The deal stipulates that if Azu plays at least 50% of the available minutes, Beitar will have the option to purchase 50% of his playing rights.

The club expressed satisfaction with the move, noting Azu's potential to greatly assist Beitar and hoping for his long-term commitment. Beitar Jerusalem, coming off a 1-0 victory against Bnei Sakhnin, will play Maccabi Petah Tikva on Tuesday, aiming to build on their win and move away from the relegation zone.