Hapoel Rishon LeZion is making an aggressive push to position itself as a serious promotion contender next season, and the club is in advanced, marathon negotiations with Nigerian striker Ezekiel Henty. Henty was a key figure in Hapoel Ramat Gan’s promotion to the Premier League and transformed that team’s attack after arriving as a January signing. In Rishon LeZion, the club is trying to close the financial gap with the player despite his high demands, while other teams are also competing for his signature.
The club has already added several players and continues to strengthen its squad. After bringing in Shahar Amsalem, Ronen Peretz, Shai Constantino, Shavit Elgabi, Yehuda Balai, Roy Ben Shimon and Uri Tzaddon, it announced agreements with two more signings on Wednesday evening. Aharon Shfeso, who played for Ironi Tiberias in the Premier League last season, and Dolev Azoulay, formerly of Hapoel Nof HaGalil, have both finalized terms and will join the team.
Hapoel Rishon LeZion is also negotiating with Ihaab Abu El Sheikh, who played for Hapoel Ra’anana last season, and with Eve Ransom, who left Hapoel Jerusalem. Ransom is also in talks with Kiryat Yam, and no deal has yet been completed.
One player confirmed to stay is Eligijus Jankauskas. The Lithuanian striker, who arrived after finishing as top scorer in his home country, will enter his second season at the club and is expected to lead the attack.