Hapoel Tel Aviv Plans Versatile Role for New Signing Douglas Awasso

Douglas Awasso, a forward from Ghana, is set to become Hapoel Tel Aviv's most expensive signing after undergoing comprehensive medical tests in Serbia on Tuesday ahead of finalizing his contract. The club expects no issues from the medical exams but is proceeding cautiously. The transfer deal was facilitated by a financial arrangement involving Luizao, another player whose transfer payments from Red Star Belgrade to Hapoel Tel Aviv were partially offset by the Awasso deal. Red Star is estimated to pay around one million euros for Luizao, while two million euros will be deducted from Awasso's transfer fee.

There has been some debate about Awasso's playing position, as he has primarily played as a right winger throughout his career. However, Hapoel Tel Aviv officials state that he is capable of playing across all attacking positions, including second striker, attacking midfielder (number 10), and left wing, reflecting his versatility. Awasso reportedly grew up playing as a number 10, and his recent matches in Serbia have seen him deployed in multiple offensive roles.

Regarding European competition registration, if the transfer is completed at least 24 hours before Hapoel Tel Aviv's first match against Katowice, Awasso will be eligible to be registered for the tournament. Although he will not be considered for the first leg, his participation in the second leg will depend on his physical condition and the club's strategic decisions.