Maccabi Haifa Faces Decision as Goalkeeper Georgi Yarmakov Prefers Move to Metalist Kharkiv

Maccabi Haifa is currently negotiating the potential transfer of goalkeeper Georgi Yarmakov, who recently returned from vacation just before the team's training camp in Hungary. Yarmakov has expressed his desire to join Ukrainian club Metalist Kharkiv, whose representatives have offered him a significantly higher salary than he currently earns at Haifa. Metalist initially approached Haifa in January, but Yarmakov was then determined to complete the season in Israel. Now, with Metalist aiming to compete for all titles in Ukraine, they have submitted a 2.5 million euro offer for the goalkeeper. Haifa is unwilling to sell at this price and is seeking to maximize the deal.

A meeting is scheduled between Yarmakov, Haifa CEO Itzik Ovadia, and sporting director Lior Rafaelov, where the club will attempt to persuade him to stay. It appears Yarmakov has made his decision, and the outcome depends on the negotiations between the clubs. Haifa acknowledges that his departure is likely in the upcoming transfer windows. The leading candidate to replace Yarmakov is Omri Glazer, who is under contract for another season with Red Star Belgrade. Glazer is open to returning to Israel, but Haifa must agree on his salary, which is expected to be higher than Yarmakov's.

Additionally, Sheriff Kiyof, who wishes to move to Hapoel Ramat Gan, continues to train with Haifa. Omri Nir'on was mentioned as a potential replacement but has not yet recovered from injury. Nadav Zamir was offered to the club but declined to join as a backup goalkeeper, removing him from consideration. Haifa is expected to receive a significant sum from Yarmakov's sale, which will impact their squad planning moving forward.