Maccabi Tel Aviv Nears Agreement to Sign Gabi Kanikovski Amid Ferencvaros Financial Shift

Maccabi Tel Aviv is advancing in negotiations to sign midfielder Gabi Kanikovski, with the club having reached a preliminary agreement with the player. Kanikovski, currently at Ferencvaros in Hungary, has expressed willingness to return to Israel due to family reasons and his religious lifestyle. The club plans to offer him a significant salary, comparable to top earners like Dor Peretz, and a long-term contract to secure his future at Maccabi.

The transfer, once considered unlikely, has gained momentum following financial changes at Ferencvaros. The Hungarian club's main sponsor has drastically reduced funding, forcing the team to adjust its budget despite remaining relatively wealthy. Kanikovski earns approximately 550,000 euros per season, making him a valuable asset whose sale could provide Ferencvaros with substantial financial relief and income.

Ferencvaros faces upcoming Europa League matches against Trabzonspor, which are critical for the club's progression and revenue. The club is expected to delay any transfer decisions until after these games, as Kanikovski's presence is vital for their chances. Maccabi Tel Aviv anticipates resuming serious talks with Ferencvaros in about a week and a half, hopeful that the deal will be finalized then.

Maccabi views Kanikovski as a key player for both their current squad and future plans. The club remains optimistic that the transfer will materialize soon, marking a significant summer acquisition for the team.