Maccabi Haifa Considers Goalkeeper Georgi Yarmakov's Transfer to Metalist Kharkiv

Maccabi Haifa is currently negotiating the potential transfer of goalkeeper Georgi Yarmakov to Ukrainian club Metalist Kharkiv. Yarmakov recently returned from vacation just before the team's training camp in Hungary and expressed his desire to move to Metalist, who have offered him a significantly higher salary than he 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 that price and aims to maximize the deal.

A meeting is scheduled between Yarmakov, Haifa CEO Itzik Ovadia, and sporting director Lior Rafaelov to persuade the goalkeeper to stay. However, it appears Yarmakov has made up his mind, and the final decision depends on the clubs' negotiations. Haifa acknowledges that Yarmakov's departure is likely in the upcoming transfer windows. The leading candidate to replace him is Omri Glazer, who is currently signed for another season with Red Star Belgrade. Glazer is open to returning to Israel, but Haifa will need to agree on his salary, expected to be higher than Yarmakov's.

Additionally, Sheriff Kiyof, interested in moving to Hapoel Ramat Gan, continues training with Haifa. Omri Niran was mentioned as a potential replacement but has not yet recovered from injury. Nadav Zamir was offered to the team but declined to join as a second-choice goalkeeper. Haifa anticipates a significant financial gain from Yarmakov's sale.