Saikou Touray could be on the verge of a return to Israeli football, with Maccabi Haifa reportedly in talks to re-sign the Gambian international as his contract with French club Grenoble approaches its end.
Touray, 24, is set to become a free agent in June 2025 following the conclusion of his current deal with the Ligue 2 side. Since joining Grenoble in 2022, the central midfielder has made 66 appearances in all competitions.
However, his role in the team has diminished over the current season, featuring in just 14 league matches, a sharp decline from previous campaigns.
The drop in playing time has fuelled speculation about his future at the club and increased the likelihood of a move away.
Sources close to the matter have confirmed that Maccabi Haifa, Touray’s former club, has initiated discussions aimed at bringing him back to the Israeli Premier League.
Touray spent four years in Israel earlier in his career, a period that culminated in winning the league title with Haifa in 2021.
His familiarity with the Israeli football landscape and his proven track record in the league are seen as valuable assets by the Haifa management.
The potential move is viewed as mutually beneficial. For Touray, it offers the chance to revive his career in a competitive environment where he previously thrived.
For Maccabi Haifa, re-signing a player who already understands the club’s system and the league dynamics could provide an immediate boost to the squad.
The midfielder’s future remains undecided as negotiations continue. Touray is understood to be weighing his options carefully, mindful of the pivotal stage his career has reached.
A return to Maccabi Haifa would not only bring him back to familiar territory but also position him in a side consistently competing at the top of Israeli football and regularly appearing in European competitions.
Should he choose not to rejoin his former club, Touray is expected to attract interest from other teams in Europe and beyond, particularly given his age, experience, and international pedigree.
He has shown flashes of high-level quality throughout his career and would likely be a sought-after asset on a free transfer.
Grenoble, for their part, have yet to comment publicly on the midfielder’s status but are reportedly preparing for life without him as part of a wider squad reshuffle ahead of the 2025–26 season.
The club’s technical staff have relied less on Touray this term, a possible indication that both sides are prepared to move on.
As June approaches, Touray’s next move will be closely watched not only by Grenoble supporters but also by fans in Israel eager to see whether the Gambian returns to one of his most successful footballing chapters.
Whatever the outcome, his decision will likely play a defining role in the trajectory of his professional journey.
