Maccabi Haifa pursues Malian midfielder Issouf Sissokho
Malian international and promising midfielder Issouf Sissokho is currently in discussions with Israeli top-tier club Maccabi Haifa, according to sources from Africafoot.
The Ligat ha’Al club, which finished second in the championship last season, has identified the 22-year-old Malian Eagle as a key target.
Following their elimination in the group stage of the Europa League during the 2023/24 season, Maccabi Haifa is keen to strengthen their squad by acquiring Sissokho to improve their performance.
Initial negotiations saw Maccabi Haifa make an offer to Girondins de Bordeaux, Sissokho’s current club.
However, the bid was rejected as it fell short of Bordeaux’s valuation. The French club has made it clear that they will not consider any offers below €700,000 for the talented midfielder.
Despite this setback, Maccabi Haifa remains undeterred. Sources close to Sissokho, who trained at Derby Academy, confirm that the Israeli club has reopened discussions and is preparing a new offer.
Negotiations between the two clubs are ongoing, and there is optimism that a deal could be reached.
The proposed contract could span two to three years, though other options within Israel are also being explored, with details yet to be disclosed.
Issouf Sissokho enjoyed an impressive season with Girondins de Bordeaux, making 31 appearances out of a possible 38 in the French Ligue 2 championship and providing one assist.
His consistent performance has not only attracted interest from Maccabi Haifa but also led to his call-up by national coach Aliou Badra Diallo Conty to participate in preparations for the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
Currently valued at €700,000 on Transfermarkt, Sissokho’s potential move to Maccabi Haifa underscores the club’s ambition to bolster their squad with young, talented players.
The midfielder’s versatility and skill set would be a significant asset for the Israeli side as they aim to improve their domestic and European performances.
As talks progress, both clubs are hopeful that a mutually beneficial agreement can be reached, allowing Sissokho to take the next step in his promising career.
His potential transfer is being closely monitored by fans and analysts alike, with expectations high for the young midfielder’s future contributions to whichever club secures his services.
