Godwin ObajeDor Turgeman’s Move to Rangers in Serious Doubt as Middle East Crisis Forces Maccabi Tel Aviv to Shift Transfer Stance
Rangers’ hopes of landing top transfer target Dor Turgeman appear to be fading rapidly, with Maccabi Tel Aviv reportedly pulling the plug on any potential sale due to escalating tensions in the Middle East.
Record Sport first revealed the Ibrox side’s strong interest in the Israeli international, as new manager Russell Martin continues his summer rebuild. The 21-year-old striker has been high on the agenda for the club’s revamped recruitment team, with Rangers’ new American owners, 49ers Enterprises, previously admirers of the player during their time at Leeds United.
With Cyriel Dessers edging closer to a move to AEK Athens, a new striker is a clear priority for Martin, who has received a £20million transfer pledge from board members Andrew Cavenagh and the 49ers. However, the club’s plans may now be in jeopardy.
According to Israeli outlet Sport 5, Maccabi Tel Aviv have “significantly changed their recruitment strategy” amid the growing conflict involving Iran and the ongoing war in Gaza. The report notes that the club now believes selling key players from Israel “would not be a smart move given the current situation”, particularly as they expect it to become increasingly difficult to attract overseas signings during the crisis.
Turgeman, who is valued at around £4 million, has been seen as a potential marquee signing at Ibrox this summer. Rangers had opened discussions with Maccabi, but the landscape has changed dramatically in recent days. The Israeli outfit are now expected to raise asking prices “significantly” across the board until they feel in a “more optimal” position to re-enter the market.
It is also claimed that Turgeman “certainly” will not be sold before the start of Maccabi’s Champions League qualifying campaign, with their first leg against Cypriot side Pafos scheduled for July 22. The club’s immediate European commitments have added further incentive to retain key personnel in the short term.
This development leaves Rangers in a delicate position. With Dessers seemingly on his way out, and a vital Champions League qualifying tie against Panathinaikos looming, Martin may be forced to navigate the early season with just Danilo and Hamza Igamane as his recognised strikers.
While the door has not completely closed on a move for Turgeman, the new geopolitical reality has thrown serious doubt on Rangers’ ability to conclude a deal this summer. It may now fall on Martin and sporting director Kevin Thelwell to turn their attention to alternative targets as they look to reinforce the squad ahead of a demanding European campaign — one that could unlock a £30 million windfall should they reach the Champions League group stage.
For now, the Ibrox hierarchy must decide whether to remain patient or pursue other avenues, as Maccabi Tel Aviv appear unwilling to part with their prize asset under such uncertain circumstances.
Godwin Obaje
