Maccabi Tel Aviv FC reached an agreement with Serbian side FK Radnički Kragujevac for the transfer of 27-year-old Slovenian international striker Ester Sokler, who has signed a 2-year contract with an option to extend by two more seasons.
Sokler (181cm) arrives after an impressive campaign in Serbia, where he scored 15 goals in 29 appearances in all competitions during the 25/26 season.
After signing his contract, Sokler, who will wear the number 9 at Maccabi, told the club’s official website: “I’m proud to join Maccabi, a club with a rich history and big ambitions. I know the expectations that come with wearing this shirt, and that’s exactly what attracted me to this challenge. I’ll give everything I have to help the team achieve its goals, score goals, win trophies and make our fans proud.”
Born in Krško, Slovenia, Sokler came through the youth ranks of his hometown club Krško Posavje, making his senior debut at the age of 17. After establishing himself in senior football, Sokler joined Brežice in 2020 and enjoyed a prolific six-month spell, scoring nine goals in just 12 appearances.
His goalscoring form earned him a move to Celje in January 2021, where he made 50 appearances and scored 10 goals over the following season and a half. Ahead of the 22/23 campaign, Sokler signed for Radomlje, continuing his development with another productive season in which he scored 10 goals in 30 appearances.
Sokler’s performances attracted Scottish side Aberdeen, who signed him in June 2023. During his time at Pittodrie, Sokler made 72 appearances in all competitions, scoring 12 goals.
At the start of the 25/26 season, Sokler joined Radnički on loan and, after scoring six goals in his first 12 matches, the Serbian club exercised its option to make the move permanent. Sokler went on to finish the campaign with 15 goals in 29 appearances in all competitions.
Sokler’s impressive season also earned him his senior international debut for Slovenia during a 1-1 friendly draw against Cyprus in June 2026. Sokler previously represented his country at U17, U18, U19 and U21 levels, making 14 appearances and scoring once.
Everyone at Maccabi welcomes Ester to the club and wishes him every success in Yellow & Blue.
