Beitar Jerusalem Nears Signing of Fast Winger Nene Gambela

Beitar Jerusalem has identified Nene Gambela, a winger from the team Tiberias, as a potential acquisition. The club is reportedly considering an immediate purchase for 500,000 Israeli shekels, with Gambela expected to join the team for the 2026/27 season. The 24-year-old right winger, in his first season in the Premier League, is recognized as one of the league's fastest players, reaching a speed of 35.8 km/h this season, ranking him 20th overall. He is also noted as a skilled dribbler, averaging 2.7 successful dribbles per game with a 51% success rate, placing him second in this category.

Gambela has started five of Tiberias's seven matches this season, showcasing good ball control from the right wing. Despite his offensive capabilities, he has taken relatively few shots, with only seven attempts, four of which were inside the penalty area. However, he is an active winger who frequently recovers possession, averaging 5.7 ball recoveries per 90 minutes, and possesses good game vision.

The transfer is contingent on Beitar Jerusalem's foreign player situation, as the team currently has eight foreign players, including two forwards, Jombosko Calo and Eugene Ansah. Gambela is likely to replace one of them, but the signing is planned for next season. This approach mirrors past signings by Almog Cohen, who has previously acquired players like Daniel Workman and Noam Mucha based on similar physical and speed attributes.

Gambela has scored one goal this season and previously played for smaller clubs in Russia, Qatar, and Azerbaijan, with his most significant stint being at Celje in Slovenia, where he scored two goals and provided three assists in his best statistical season. He initially arrived in Israel as a trialist, impressing in the Toto Cup before joining Tiberias. The 500,000 shekel transfer fee could provide significant financial assistance to Tiberias.

Gambela is considered a technical player capable of operating in tight spaces, a skill not fully utilized at Tiberias. His potential addition alongside players like Yarden Shua and Omer Atzili could open up the field for Beitar Jerusalem. The timing of this potential transfer, amidst Tiberias's financial difficulties, might also signal interest from other Premier League clubs. Gambela will finish the season with Tiberias but will belong to Beitar Jerusalem.