Maccabi Haifa Offers $1.8 Million for Lucas Assadi but Faces Rejection

Maccabi Haifa recently signed Bronninio and is now pursuing Lucas Assadi, a player who was previously linked to the club last season. According to Chilean media reports, Maccabi Haifa offered Universidad de Chile $1.8 million for 70 percent of Assadi's rights, but the offer was rejected. Assadi, a 22-year-old attacking midfielder with four appearances for the Chilean national team, is reportedly very disappointed due to limited playing time, having been excluded from the squad for four consecutive matches.

Universidad de Chile's management is delaying Assadi's transfer abroad while the coaching staff does not consider him a key player. Assadi is under contract until 2027 with a release clause slightly above $2 million. The club reportedly prefers a loan deal to help him regain his previous form before a potential sale. The leading candidate for a loan is currently Coquimbo Unido. Assistant coach Fabricio Coloccini commented that Assadi's absence from the squad is purely a professional decision and that he has had the same opportunities as other players.

Assadi played 552 league minutes in 2026 without scoring and with only one assist. Once considered a promising talent linked to clubs like Brighton, Benfica, Alkmaar, and Boca Juniors, his progress was hampered by a serious injury and loss of status upon return. His market value on Transfermarkt stands at 2.5 million euros.