Be'er Sheva Faces Contract Battle to Retain Key Player Eliel Peretz Amid Champions League Bid

Hapoel Be'er Sheva is preparing for a crucial Champions League qualifying match against Sabah on Tuesday, with the potential to make club history by advancing to the group stage. Amid this sporting milestone, the club and owner Alona Barkat face a significant decision regarding star player Eliel Peretz, who is entering the final year of his contract.

Nir Klinger, speaking on the sports show "Yetzia HaItonut," revealed that Barkat is aware that both Maccabi Tel Aviv and Maccabi Haifa are aggressively pursuing Peretz. These clubs are reportedly ready to offer a contract worth between 400,000 and 500,000 euros per season net, over at least three years, sums that Be'er Sheva typically does not pay Israeli players.

Klinger emphasized that if Be'er Sheva qualifies for the Champions League, Barkat will be determined not to lose Peretz, but if they fail to qualify, retaining him will be more challenging. Eli Ohana, another commentator, highlighted Peretz's importance not only for European competition but also for domestic league success, stating that Barkat will likely pay around 300,000 euros to keep him. Ohana stressed that Barkat understands the market and must do everything possible to secure Peretz's future with the club.

The outcome of the upcoming match and contract negotiations will be pivotal for Be'er Sheva's ambitions both on and off the field.