Ex-Striker Schechter Reveals Maccabi Tel Aviv Talks with Kais Ghanem

Former Israeli striker Itay Schechter revealed on the "Olim LaRegel" podcast that Maccabi Tel Aviv held transfer negotiations with another Israeli forward, Kais Ghanem, in addition to Alon Turgeman and Guy Melamed. Schechter explained that the move for Ghanem did not materialize because the player had a contract with Hapoel Hadera at the time.

Maccabi Tel Aviv was seeking an Israeli striker following the departure of Seydouba Soumah. While Turgeman and Melamed were also targets, Schechter disclosed that Ghanem was in discussions with the club earlier in the year. "There were talks, but things didn't quite work out, and he has a contract in Hadera," Schechter stated.

Schechter praised Ghanem, noting that "there's something about him that many coaches like." He added that while Maccabi Tel Aviv was interested and engaged in conversations, the deal did not progress. "Don't be surprised if you see him at one of the big clubs," Schechter commented.

Ghanem has had a strong start to the season, scoring three league goals and three in the Toto Cup. He signed a one-year contract with an option for an additional season with Hapoel Hadera this past summer.