“The wait is almost over,” declares Taha, a Besiktas supporter perched on the stadium steps overlooking the Bosphorus. His phone refreshes constantly, tracking every development regarding Mo Salah (34), the free agent whose potential move to Turkey has dominated headlines for weeks. Local reports suggest a one-year deal worth €12 million, with performance-based bonuses attached, is close to being finalized.

Why this transfer would be historic

Eren Tutel, Besiktas specialist and journalist, doesn’t mince words: “This could become the biggest transfer in club history, and possibly the entire Turkish league.” He points to Salah’s unparalleled combination of global fame, commercial appeal, and on-field excellence. Having secured three Premier League titles (2015 with Chelsea, 2020 and 2025 with Liverpool) and lifted the Champions League trophy in 2019, Salah brings a trophy cabinet that few Turkish clubs could match.

Caner Isbegendiren of Fanatik newspaper emphasizes Salah’s cultural impact: “He’s not just a footballer—he’s Egypt’s most recognizable figure, a national ambassador.” His arrival would eclipse even previous marquee signings like Quaresma (Besiktas legend with 154 appearances) and Osimhen (Galatasaray’s 2024 acquisition).

A club in crisis seeks salvation

Besiktas faces an existential moment. Since their 2021 title triumph, the club has plummeted to fourth place last season, trailing behind rivals Galatasaray, Fenerbahçe, and Trabzonspor. The atmosphere at Vodafone Park reflects the gloom—fans describe the morale as “in freefall”. A video circulating online shows a supporter waking from anesthesia, immediately demanding updates on Salah’s potential signing.

The board has already made one strategic move, securing Belgian winger Leandro Trossard from Arsenal for €18 million. His presentation last Thursday drew 20,000 fans, who chanted Salah’s name in unison. “Signing Salah would complete the vision,” notes Tutel. “This club has lacked balance for years—he could be the missing piece.”