Maccabi Haifa Eyes Transfer of Left-Back Kenneth Paal Before Window Closes

Israeli football club Maccabi Haifa is reportedly attempting to sign left-back Kenneth Paal from Turkish club Antalyaspor before the transfer window closes on Wednesday. Paal, who has expressed a desire to leave Turkey after not featuring in any matches this season, has confirmed Maccabi Haifa's interest. He is familiar with Maccabi Haifa midfielder Tjaronn Chery, having played with him on the Suriname national team.

Paal spent most of his career in the English Championship and the top Dutch league before joining Antalyaspor, with whom he was relegated to the second division. If Paal joins, Maccabi Haifa may need to release a foreign player, with center-back Pedroso being the likely candidate, despite recently returning to the starting lineup after recovering from injury.

The club is also preparing for an upcoming match against Ironi Kiryat Shmona. Coach Barak Bakhar faces decisions regarding the right-back position, considering Yilel Baltaxa and Eyad Habalali. Kenny Saief might play left-back, potentially displacing Pedroso and allowing Tsunami to partner Nigel Hylton in central defense. Cedric D'un is expected to retain his spot on the left wing, while Kangy Hura and Yair Mordechai will likely remain on the bench.

Coach Bakhar expressed optimism about the team's momentum following a recent league win and emphasized the importance of fan support, particularly in Netanya, where they expect a strong turnout. Player Andrija Novakovich also highlighted the team's positive feeling after their last victory and looks forward to building momentum for the season, appreciating the anticipated fan support.