Sayed Abu Farhi's move from Maccabi Tel Aviv to Major League Soccer has cleared its biggest hurdle. The two clubs have agreed the framework of a transfer worth roughly $6 million, ONE reports, and the only step left is formal approval from MLS league management before the 20-year-old striker can complete his switch to Colorado Rapids.
The fee could rise by up to $1 million through performance-related add-ons, according to ONE, with Maccabi also retaining a small sell-on percentage should the Rapids move him on in future. Ynet, which first reported the clubs reaching an in-principle agreement, put the same headline figure of $6 million and confirmed the additional bonus structure.
Abu Farhi's own camp stands to benefit heavily. His family holds a stake of roughly 17.5 percent in his economic rights, meaning a $6 million sale would net them just over $1 million, with the rest going to Maccabi Tel Aviv, Walla Sport reported as the talks progressed.
The move has not been a simple negotiation. Colorado initially tabled a $6 million bid and, according to Ynet, pushed Maccabi for a same-day answer at one stage, while the Tel Aviv club had been holding out for closer to $8 million. The framework now agreed suggests the sides met close to the Rapids' original number, with add-ons bridging some of the gap.
Under MLS roster rules, Abu Farhi would sign as a young designated talent on the maximum salary permitted for players under 22 — reported by Ynet at $400,000 net across a four-year contract.
The timing is awkward for Maccabi Tel Aviv, who host CSKA Sofia in the second leg of their Europa League third qualifying round tie in Sofia on Thursday, trailing 3-0 from the first leg. ONE notes Thursday's match may be Abu Farhi's last appearance in a Maccabi shirt, depending on whether manager Kenny Miller opts to field him with a move to Denver-area club Colorado already all but agreed.
Abu Farhi has been Maccabi's most productive forward this season, scoring four goals in the club's opening four matches, after a breakout campaign last season that yielded 11 goals and three assists across all competitions. He is a product of Maccabi's academy and has represented Israel at U16, U17, U19 and U21 level.
His expected exit fits a wider pattern at Maccabi Tel Aviv this summer. One player at the club described the current mood as having "the feel of a clearance sale," Ynet reported, amid several departures under new management. Once MLS signs off, Abu Farhi is expected to travel to the United States to finalize the move to Colorado Rapids.
