Maccabi Haifa Weighs Two Left-Back Options Before Transfer Window Closes

Israeli football club Maccabi Haifa is in the final stages of the transfer window, which closes in two days, seeking to sign a left-back. The team is considering two candidates: Kenneth Paal from Antalyaspor and Lucas Baros from Vojvodina. The club aims to bolster its left flank, which has struggled offensively this season. With winger Bruninho potentially moving to a more central role, Maccabi Haifa needs a fast left-back capable of exploiting space and contributing offensively.

Kenneth Paal offers tactical flexibility and potential cost savings. He reportedly earns a significant salary at Antalyaspor and is not currently registered, opening the possibility of a free transfer that could save the club money and allow for further strengthening in January. Paal is noted for his speed, reaching a maximum of 34.5 km/h, and his natural winger abilities, making him adept at using the touchline. While his statistics from the past season are lower than Baros', this is attributed to playing in a tougher league. Paal's versatility, having played as a defensive midfielder, could be a significant advantage, especially if the club needs additional depth in that position. However, he might be a longer-term solution, and with only seven foreign players allowed per match, his immediate impact as a starter for the next two months is uncertain.

Lucas Baros is presented as a more immediate solution, possessing better match fitness. Having played in eight games this season, he is expected to integrate more quickly. Baros has shown greater involvement in attack than Paal, contributing key passes and three assists last season. He also demonstrates a higher rate of ball recovery. While his statistics might be influenced by his team's league performance compared to Paal's, Baros is accustomed to playing for a top-tier club that dominates possession, similar to Maccabi Haifa's style. He is considered a potentially better player who could contribute sooner, though his long-term suitability might depend on the health of current left-back Pierre Cornud.