Hapoel Haifa Secures Midfielder Shay Elias in Key Summer Signing

Hapoel Haifa has completed one of its most significant signings in recent years by acquiring midfielder Shay Elias, who joined the club after four seasons with Hapoel Be'er Sheva and a championship win. Elias, now a free agent, decided to sign with Hapoel Haifa despite the club not being a title contender, a move influenced by personal and professional factors.

The transfer discussions began about two weeks ago, with former teammate Alon Turgeman and coach Haim Silvas playing pivotal roles in persuading Elias to join. Silvas maintained daily contact with Elias, who was in the United States supporting his father through a serious medical condition. The club promised Elias a leadership role and a key position in the midfield, which appealed to him after a season of inconsistent playing time.

Hapoel Haifa's owner, Yoav Katz, revealed that players were involved in the decision to bring Elias on board, highlighting the collaborative approach taken. The club negotiated intensively with Elias and his agent, Boaz Goren, over two weeks before finalizing the deal. Elias signed a one-year contract with an option for a second year, reportedly earning around 180,000 euros, comparable to his previous salary at Hapoel Be'er Sheva.

The club described the signing as a "steal," emphasizing that Elias is joining at the peak of his career at age 27. This acquisition is seen as a strategic move to strengthen Hapoel Haifa's midfield alongside Shik Kaiteh ahead of the upcoming season.