Hapoel Be'er Sheva Prepares for Kings Kangwa's Transfer to Greek Champions AEK Athens

Hapoel Be'er Sheva is preparing for the imminent departure of their star player Kings Kangwa, who is expected to be sold to Greek champions AEK Athens. The transfer could be finalized as early as next weekend, following the team's two Champions League qualifying matches against Icelandic champions Vikingur Reykjavik. The club's owner, Alona Barkat, assured Kangwa that she will not block a suitable financial offer for him, as she has done previously with other key players moving to top European leagues. However, Kangwa has been asked to remain with the team through the European qualifying campaign, as advancing to the group stage is a primary goal for the club this season.

Be'er Sheva needs to pass just one round of matches to secure at least a spot in the UEFA Conference League. The first leg is scheduled for Tuesday away against Vikingur Reykjavik, with the return leg in Hungary next Wednesday. If Be'er Sheva is eliminated, Kangwa may be required to stay for another qualifying round in the Europa League. Despite this, AEK Athens' participation in the Champions League as Greek champions means they will compete in a more prestigious tournament, making it unlikely Kangwa will remain in Israel.

The club hopes to earn around four million euros from the transfer. Be'er Sheva recognizes that losing Kangwa is a significant professional blow, especially as other key players like Dan Biton are sidelined due to heart inflammation, and new signing João Victor is injured and unlikely to play in the qualifiers. Kangwa's departure will necessitate adding one or two midfielders, with Maor Levi from Maccabi Netanya emerging as the leading candidate. Coach Ran Kojukh is keen on acquiring Levi, and while previous negotiations faced financial hurdles, Kangwa's exit is expected to accelerate efforts to complete the deal.