Tel Aviv (VINnews)-Former NBA MVP Russell Westbrook is in advanced talks to join Hapoel Tel Aviv, according to U.S. reports, potentially marking one of the biggest signings in European basketball history and a landmark moment for Israeli basketball.

Discussions between the 37-year-old free agent and the Israeli club continue to advance, journalist Marc Jacobs posted on X. If completed, the deal would be Westbrook’s first professional stint outside the United States.

About two weeks after earlier reports of interest from Hapoel Tel Aviv were denied, the sides have maintained contact that has progressed, the reports said. Westbrook is seriously considering a move abroad for the first time in his career, according to The Athletic.

Westbrook remains a free agent after finishing last season. Over his NBA career he won the league’s Most Valuable Player award, earned nine All-Star selections, set the all-time record for triple-doubles and was named to the NBA’s 75th Anniversary Team. He is widely regarded as one of the greatest point guards of his generation.

No agreement has been reached. At this stage the talks remain advanced negotiations, with Westbrook weighing a new chapter away from the NBA. A completed signing would rank among the most significant player acquisitions ever seen in European basketball and especially in Israeli league history.