FCSB moves quickly for experienced midfielder
Agreement reached after short negotiations
FCSB has finalized an understanding with Israeli midfielder Ofri Arad, 27, who is currently without a club following his departure from Kairat Almaty. The information was first reported by Ziare.com, which outlined the course of the talks and the player’s contractual situation.
According to Ziare.com, discussions progressed quickly after initial contact, with both sides exchanging proposals before agreeing on final terms. Arad is expected to join FCSB as a free agent once paperwork is completed and a medical examination is carried out.
Becali explains the transfer process
Club owner Gigi Becali confirmed the agreement publicly and detailed how the negotiations unfolded during an appearance on Digi Sport 1.
„Ne-am înțeles cu Arad. El a trimis o ofertă. Noi am trimis o contraofertă și a spus ok. Am trimis contractul să-l semneze și să fie vizita medicală făcută și atât. Aici o face, în țară. A terminat cu ei, nu mai e la echipă. Nu are cum să fie gata pentru meciul cu Argeș”, a spus Gigi Becali.
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Becali added that the midfielder will need time to regain full match fitness and will not be available immediately after signing.
European experience highlighted
Ziare.com reported that Arad featured this season in the Champions League with Kairat Almaty, gaining experience at the highest continental level. During the competition, he also found the net, including a goal against Inter Milano, the team coached by Cristi Chivu.
The same source noted that Arad is valued at approximately 1.2 million euros, a figure reflecting both his international exposure and physical attributes.
Motivations behind the decision
Speaking further on Digi Sport 1, Becali explained the personal and internal factors that influenced the decision to move forward with the transfer.
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„De când am început să citesc despre poporul evreu, am ajuns să iubesc poporul evreu. Am vrut să am un evreu în echipă. Pe mine nu m-a convins, habar n-am, dar MM a spus că e fotbalist bun, bun. Nu doar bun. Ci bun, bun. Dacă MM spune bun, bun, chiar e. Are și fizic. A zis MM că îi trebuie o lună de pregătire”, a declarat Gigi Becali.
Timing and expectations for FCSB
With the agreement now in place, FCSB is expected to complete the remaining formalities in the coming days. According to Ziare.com, the club views Arad as a medium term addition rather than an immediate solution, given the need for physical preparation after a recent period without competitive football.
Sources: Ziare.com, Digi Sport 1
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