Hapoel Be'er Sheva Sues Hapoel HaEmek Over Player Transfer Fees

Hapoel Be'er Sheva is suing Hapoel HaEmek for "development fees" related to the transfer of basketball player C.J. E Lby. The southern club claims their request for payment from the northern club has been ignored. Hapoel Be'er Sheva/Dimona initially approached Hapoel HaEmek demanding the fees for E Lby, who played for Be'er Sheva last season. HaEmek initially refused, but the league's "Dachatz" committee ruled that HaEmek must pay.

Hapoel HaEmek then requested a rehearing, arguing that E Lby did not complete a full season due to the war with Iran, and that the committee's decision was based on this. In a subsequent discussion, it was decided that the clubs would attempt to reach an agreement before the league administration made a final decision. However, Be'er Sheva stated that their attempts to engage HaEmek in dialogue were unsuccessful.

E Lby was a prominent player for Be'er Sheva/Dimona last season before moving to Hapoel HaEmek this summer, also having held talks with Hapoel Jerusalem. The dispute centers on the development fees for his transfer. Yonatan Allon, professional manager for Hapoel HaEmek, stated that temporary league regulations for the 2025/26 season regarding development fees are being discussed. He added that there is a separate issue with Kiryat Ata concerning player Malik Hall, and that discussions are proceeding positively among the clubs and the league administration, with an agreement expected soon.