Maccabi Tel Aviv Opens to Selling Uri Azou to Israeli Clubs Including Beitar Jerusalem

Uri Azou, once hailed as a promising talent for Maccabi Tel Aviv, has struggled to secure a regular spot in the reigning cup holders' lineup. Last summer, Maccabi firmly refused to sell Azou to any of Israel's top clubs, including Beitar Jerusalem, Maccabi Haifa, Hapoel Tel Aviv, and Hapoel Be'er Sheva, only agreeing to loan deals with a veto on permanent transfers to these direct competitors. However, a year later, the club's stance has shifted. Maccabi is now open to a permanent transfer of Azou, even to an Israeli team, though no official offers have yet met their valuation.

Sources indicate Maccabi values Azou at approximately 750,000 euros, a price that contrasts sharply with the player's camp, which seeks a reduction closer to 350,000 euros. This discrepancy stems partly from comparisons to players like Younes Melida, who, despite limited playtime similar to Azou, was sold for just 100,000 euros. Maccabi is reportedly willing to negotiate and lower their asking price somewhat but has not yet agreed to the player's desired figure.

Beitar Jerusalem has conducted preliminary inquiries about Azou but has not submitted a formal offer. Should Maccabi reduce the price to around 350,000 euros, Beitar could consider pursuing the transfer. Azou himself is reportedly unwilling to accept another loan and prefers a permanent move. The ongoing negotiations highlight the tension between Maccabi's expectations and the market valuation perceived by Azou's representatives.