Kryvbas Bolsters Squad with Portuguese Defender and Israeli Midfielder on Loan

Kryvbas Football Club Transfers

According to Главком: Ukrainian Premier League side Kryvbas has officially announced the additions of two new players: Portuguese defender João Machado and Israeli midfielder Roy Navi. Machado arrives from Portuguese club Belenenses on a permanent four-year deal. Meanwhile, Navi joins on a season-long loan from Maccabi Tel Aviv, with an option to make the move permanent.

Transfer Details

Kryvbas confirmed the signing of 21-year-old right-back João Machado via their official website. The transfer is a permanent switch from Belenenses. Before his time there, Machado came through the youth ranks at Benfica. During the 2025/2026 season, he made 24 appearances across all competitions, scoring once and providing one assist.

Midfielder Roy Navi also joins Kryvbas from Maccabi Tel Aviv. A product of Maccabi's academy, he has yet to make a senior appearance for the club. He has previously played on loan for Hapoel Petah Tikva and Hapoel Haifa, and has represented Israel at youth international level, earning six caps for the U21 side. Last season, Navi played 26 matches in all competitions, scoring one goal and adding one assist. His contract with Maccabi Tel Aviv runs until the summer of 2028. He will wear the number 17 jersey for his new team.

These moves highlight Kryvbas's active strategy to strengthen their roster ahead of the new campaign. By bringing in young, promising talents like Machado and Navi, the club aims to improve its standing in the Ukrainian Premier League. The loan deal for Navi with a purchase option also reflects Kryvbas's intent to identify players who could become key contributors in the future.

Following the recent signings, the club is keen on enhancing its midfield options, with Roy Navi's arrival being a significant move. To learn more about his background and the potential impact he could have at Kryvbas, check out our detailed coverage on Navi's loan deal.