Hapoel Petah Tikva Forgoes Option to Buy Loaned Player Bille

Hapoel Petah Tikva has registered the contract of Ivorian striker Ib Eric Bille, who arrived on loan from Bulgarian club Ludogorets, with the club's budget control department. However, the team's fans will be disappointed to learn that the agreement does not include an option for Hapoel Petah Tikva to purchase Bille at the end of the season, a common clause in such deals.

The decision not to insist on a purchase option reportedly stemmed from the serious injury sustained by Frank Ribery, coupled with the pressure to acquire a forward with similar attributes. Insisting on the option might have jeopardized the entire deal.

In parallel, Hapoel Petah Tikva is working to finalize the transfer of Itay Ben Shabbat. The player has received a financial offer comparable to the contract he had with Oral Dgani, who moved to MS Ashdod. This means Ben Shabbat would need to accept a 30% pay cut unless Maccabi Netanya agrees to supplement his salary, a condition they have so far refused.

The club hopes to resolve the Ben Shabbat situation before the transfer window closes tomorrow.