Maccabi Haifa will not stand in Abu Fani’s way if the Israel international wants to join Scottish Premiership champions Celtic this summer, as reported by One.
The Glasgow giants certainly have an impressive track record when it comes to signing Israeli footballers. Eyal Berkovic shone north of the border before showcasing his jinking stride in the Premier League, while Nir Bitton, Beram Kayal and Hatem Abd Elhamed have more silverware between them than a Debenhams firesale.
What’s more, Liel Abada repaid Celtic’s £3.5 million investment with 15 goals and 11 assists during an excellent debut season at Parkhead. The spring-heeled winger is worth far more these days.
The hope will be that Abu Fani, a diminutive, 24-year-old midfielder with plenty of strings to his wide-ranging bow, can emulate Abada’s impact on the green side of the city.
Will Celtic reunite Liel Abada with Abu Fani?
The Daily Record believe Celtic are fighting Standard Liege, Royal Antwerp and Europa League winners Eintracht Frankfurt for Abu Fani. The report adds that a deal could be done for just £800,000.
“If there is an offer for Abu Fani, we will be happy for our player to advance (in his career),” reads a statement on behalf of Maccabi Haifa, as reported by One. “And he will be released.”
The reigning Israeli Premier League champions have not yet received an official offer for the much-admired Abu Fani. Though One claim that – if a bidding war does commence – they are unlikely to demand a fee in excess of £1.2 million.
While hardly the most physically imposing player at just 5ft 4ins, Abu Fani possesses a cynical streak that could stand him in good stead amid the rough and tumble of Scottish football. He actually picked up more yellow cards (14) than goals or assists (12 combined) as Maccabi Haifa secured another domestic title in 2021/22.
What’s more, Abu Fani’s blend of tenacity and technique, coupled with an ability to play anywhere across the central midfield positions, appears to make him a good fit for a Postecoglou side.
Celtic are also keen on goalkeeper Benjamin Siegrist, with a new left-back a top priority too. Allsvenskan duo Mohanad Jeahze and Erick Otieno have been linked. Liam Scales, meanwhile, could join Aberdeen. Connor Barron may move in the other direction.
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