Hapoel Petah Tikva Awaits Shakhtar's Decision to Finalize Diego Aroyo Loan

Hapoel Petah Tikva is progressing with its squad strengthening for the upcoming season, awaiting Shakhtar Donetsk's confirmation on releasing defender Diego Aroyo. The Ukrainian club promised to provide an answer on Sunday, contingent on signing a replacement center-back. Aroyo has agreed to terms with Petah Tikva, and his agent, Rafi Epstein, is ready to finalize the transfer once Shakhtar gives the green light.

Meanwhile, the club is also waiting for a ruling from the Players' Status Committee regarding the compensation fee owed to Ironi Rishon LeZion for the development rights of defender Roy Zarhin, who is currently training with Petah Tikva. Following a recent loss to Hapoel Ramat Gan, coach Omer Peretz acknowledged the season's challenges and noted that some new signings have yet to prove themselves. The team still needs to recruit additional players to complete the roster.

Separately, player Omer Katz held discussions with coach Peretz and was informed the club intends to keep him. Although Katz expressed a desire to leave, he stated privately that he will honor his contract and does not consider a transfer at this time.