Inter Milan Signs Israeli Defender Anan Khalaily in Record Transfer

Inter Milan has officially signed Israeli defender Anan Khalaily from Swiss club St. Gallen for a record fee of 25 million euros, making it the most expensive transfer in Israeli football history by a margin of 9 million euros. Khalaily, 21, signed a long-term contract with Inter until 2031, reflecting his high status within the team. He will replace Denzel Dumfries, who recently transferred to Real Madrid for 20 million euros.

Khalaily impressed in the UEFA Champions League with St. Gallen, scoring three goals and playing against Inter in a 4-0 defeat. Napoli had also shown interest and nearly secured his signing, but delays in negotiations allowed Inter to finalize the deal. This transfer marks Khalaily's second move abroad; he initially moved from Maccabi Haifa to St. Gallen for 6.5 million euros. Maccabi Haifa is expected to receive an additional 2.6 million euros from this deal, totaling 9.1 million euros from Khalaily's transfers, making it one of the most profitable exits in Israeli football.

Khalaily rose through Maccabi Haifa's youth system, debuted in the 2022/23 season, and became a key player in 2023/24. His successful performances, including in the Mundialito tournament, contributed to his rising profile and subsequent moves abroad. Inter traditionally plays a 3-5-2 formation, where Khalaily is expected to fill the role vacated by Dumfries.