Agent Reveals Why Nicolascu Transfer to Ramat Gan Collapsed

The protracted transfer saga of Yonatan Nicolascu has ended abruptly, with the player remaining at Maccabi Tel Aviv instead of joining Hapoel Ramat Gan. Nicolascu's agent, Rafi Epstein, spoke to "5 Baavir" after the transfer window closed, detailing the reasons behind the deal's collapse.

Epstein explained that negotiations with Maccabi Tel Aviv to move Nicolascu off their roster for the season had been ongoing for three months. After Nicolascu chose an offer from Hapoel Ramat Gan, he met with the club's representative, Avi Yechiel, who was impressed and eager to sign the player. All financial terms and conditions, including an exit clause, were reportedly agreed upon by both clubs.

However, in the final days before the transfer deadline, Epstein sensed a slowdown. He noted a decrease in communication from Maccabi Tel Aviv, which he found suspicious. He believes Maccabi Tel Aviv ultimately blocked the transfer because they failed to secure a replacement winger, deciding to keep Nicolascu to play for them instead of allowing him to join Hapoel Ramat Gan.

Epstein expressed frustration with the last-minute breakdown, calling it "nonsense." He stated that Maccabi Tel Aviv found a pretext to scuttle the deal, which he felt was disrespectful. Nicolascu himself remained uninvolved in the final negotiations, leaving the decision to his agent. Epstein added that if Maccabi Tel Aviv had decided against the transfer earlier, it would have been more honorable.

Regarding Nicolascu's recovery from injury, Epstein updated that the player is progressing well and has begun training with a ball. He is expected to return to full team training by mid-October and be available to play in November. Epstein also briefly commented on Adrian Ogrisa, stating the player is happy at Hapoel Be'er Sheva despite some disappointment about not playing recently.