Beitar Jerusalem Faces Defensive Setback, Eyes Free Agent Yihab Gorfinkel

Beitar Jerusalem's defensive lineup has been dealt a blow with the news that fullback Yarden Cohen will require arthroscopic surgery on his meniscus. Cohen has been sidelined for six weeks due to a persistent injury and is now expected to miss an additional six to eight weeks, with a projected return in late November. This extended absence forces the club's technical staff to re-evaluate their strategy, particularly in strengthening the defense.

The team is once again considering signing free agent fullback Yihab Gorfinkel, whom they pursued in the summer. Financial disagreements had previously stalled the transfer, but Gorfinkel's contract with AEK Larnaca of Cyprus has now been officially terminated, making him a free agent. While Beitar Jerusalem has initiated talks, a deal is reportedly not yet close to being finalized.

Beitar Jerusalem is not the only club interested in the 28-year-old Gorfinkel, who has previously played for Maccabi Haifa, Hapoel Tel Aviv, Hapoel Haifa, Norrköping in Sweden, and Chengdu in China. Hapoel Tel Aviv had also shown interest in the summer but ultimately signed Yanick Lellindal, and Maccabi Netanya has recently expressed interest.

Meanwhile, other players are also facing challenges with playing time at Beitar Jerusalem. Ziv Ben Shimol, who had a strong breakout season last year, has seen his role diminish, playing only nine minutes in the last three league games. If his situation doesn't improve by the January transfer window, he may seek a loan move.

Additionally, Nabo Shado was left out of the squad for the recent match against Hapoel Haifa in favor of Timothy Muzie, indicating uncertainty about his position within the team.