Israeli Football's Record Transfer to Inter Milan Canceled After Failed Medical

A dramatic development has unfolded in Israeli and Italian football as Anan Khalaily's record-breaking transfer to Inter Milan has been canceled. The 21-year-old Israeli player, currently with Belgian club Union Saint-Gilloise, was set to join the Italian Serie A champions for a historic fee of approximately 25 million euros, the highest ever paid for an Israeli player. However, the deal fell through after Khalaily failed the comprehensive medical examinations required due to a congenital heart condition discovered during initial tests.

The transfer was expected to be finalized last week, but routine medical checks revealed the heart issue, prompting Italian authorities to demand further testing. Despite undergoing additional evaluations, the Italian Ministry of Health did not approve Khalaily's medical clearance, effectively closing the door on any move to Inter or any other Italian club, as similar tests would be mandatory elsewhere in Italy.

Khalaily will now return to Union Saint-Gilloise, where he has been a key player, contributing to the club's Super Cup, league title, and cup victories. He initially rose to prominence after the 2023 Mondialito tournament, where Israel finished third and he scored two goals. After one season in Belgium with eight goals in 30 appearances, he was sold for around 7.5 million euros. Last summer, interest in Khalaily peaked with top clubs like Inter, Napoli, and Tottenham vying for his signature. He ultimately chose Inter partly because they planned to sell Denzel Dumfries, who plays in his position.

While Khalaily was poised to become the most expensive Israeli football transfer, this milestone will not be achieved through an Italian club. Future transfers to other countries remain possible, but the failed medical in Italy marks a significant setback in his career trajectory.