Hapoel Tel Aviv Signs Douglas Avuso in Club's Most Expensive Transfer

Hapoel Tel Aviv has officially signed 20-year-old winger Douglas Avuso, marking the most expensive transfer in the club's history. Avuso, who was previously on the verge of moving to Viktoria Plzen before failing medical tests, arrives from Red Star Belgrade in a deal worth 2.2 million euros. He signed a four-year contract and will wear jersey number 35, joining the team ahead of their upcoming second-leg match against Katowice.

Avuso, valued at 4.5 million euros by Transfermarkt, was purchased by Red Star Belgrade in January for 2.2 million euros after playing for Serbian club Radnik Surdulica. He has scored nine goals in 33 Serbian SuperLiga appearances last season and has contributed two goals and one assist since joining Red Star. Despite interest from major Israeli clubs including Maccabi Tel Aviv and Maccabi Haifa, Avuso pushed for a move to Hapoel Tel Aviv, effectively reversing the transfer path of Loizos Loizou, who moved from Hapoel to Red Star.

Loizou's transfer to Red Star was reportedly for 3.5 million euros, making it the highest sale in Hapoel Tel Aviv's history, with the club receiving a net 3 million euros plus 10% of any future sale. Avuso expressed excitement about joining Hapoel, praising the club's passionate fans and committing to fight for the team. This signing aims to strengthen Hapoel's attack under coach Barada as they prepare for European competition.

The transfer highlights Hapoel Tel Aviv's ambition and financial commitment to rebuilding their squad with promising young talent, while also reflecting the growing connections between Israeli and Serbian football clubs.