Michael Laudrup is top of Jacob Shachar’s wish-list after the Maccabi Haifa president stated his intentions to appoint a foreign manager for next season.

Maccabi move into the new 30,000 Sami Ofer Stadium in the summer and Shahar wants to re-establish the Greens as Israel’s top club, and he says he is prepared to invest accordingly.

Haifa last won the Ligat Ha’Al title in 2010/11 and Shachar believes the former Swansea City manager can help turn the club’s fortunes around.

Shachar met agent Pini Zahavi, a childhood friend, to discuss possible appointments in London last week. Laudrup has been approached by Zahavi and it is thought he could agree terms if he has not received a more attractive offer by the summer.

Yossi Benayoun has also reportedly been offered the chance to become Haifa’s assistant-manager, while continuing to play.

Maccabi Haifa are currently fourth in Ligat Ha’Al under manager Arik Benado who will become Israel’s assistant-manager at the end of the season.

A top three finish is required to qualify for the Europa League.