Hapoel Petah Tikva asks Maccabi Tel Aviv about Ori Ezu

Hapoel Petah Tikva has begun preparing for the 2026/27 season after finishing in the top playoff last year, and one of its main priorities is keeping midfielder Roy David. The club wants to hold on to last season’s breakthrough player, but it is aware of growing interest from the United States, and his agent Idan Ben Abu has already received inquiries from several clubs.

David is set to report for preseason training with Petah Tikva, but his situation could change once the MLS transfer window opens. The club has placed a price tag of 1 million euros on him, saying he remains a central figure for next season and that any departure would require a significant fee.

Alongside the effort to retain David, Petah Tikva is moving to strengthen its squad. The club has already signed Or Israelov, Yazan Nasser and Avishai Cohen for next season, is close to bringing in Roy Shashon, and is looking for foreign central defenders. Manager Peretz wants to finalize defensive signings quickly, and the coach has approved talks with Guy Badash, who is expected to replace Yonatan Cohen, who will not stay on.

Petah Tikva has also contacted Maccabi Tel Aviv about young talent Ori Ezu. If he joins, he is expected to fill the role of Ari Cohen. The club is also seeking a foreign striker, while Harel Shalom of Hapoel Jerusalem is being considered as a backup left back.