Hapoel Tel Aviv Advances Negotiations to Sign Real Madrid Star Mario Hezonja

Hapoel Tel Aviv has renewed negotiations with Croatian forward Mario Hezonja, a key player for Real Madrid, aiming to secure his transfer this summer. The club intensified talks last week, with the professional staff engaging directly with Hezonja, who is expected to face the Israeli national team with Croatia on Sunday. Despite Hezonja's contract with Real Madrid running until 2029 and including an NBA exit clause only, Spanish reports from 'Kopa' and 'Marca' suggest a high likelihood of his departure from the club this summer.

Hezonja, 31 years old and standing 2.06 meters tall, is considered one of the top forwards in the EuroLeague, having averaged 13.3 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 2.4 assists last season in continental competition, and 17.5 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 1.9 assists in the Spanish league. Hapoel Tel Aviv is prepared to offer a significant transfer fee, although Dubai-based teams are also interested in the player.

During a recent Croatia-Israel national team meeting, Hezonja expressed a personal connection to Israel, mentioning his enjoyment of previous visits. His partner is Jewish, but it remains unclear if he can register as an Israeli player; nonetheless, Hapoel Tel Aviv intends to sign him even as a foreign player. This move marks a major effort by the Israeli club to strengthen its roster with a high-profile international talent.