The anticipation among Besiktas supporters is electric. Taha, a lifelong fan, was spotted at the Vodafone Park stadium clutching his phone, refreshing every update about the potential signing. “We’re waiting for the announcement,” he declared, his voice brimming with excitement. At 34 years old, Salah—currently a free agent after his Liverpool stint—could command a €12 million contract with performance-based incentives, according to local reports.
Why this transfer would be historic
Eren Tutel, Besiktas analyst and BirGün journalist, doesn’t mince words: “This would be the biggest signing in the club’s history—possibly Turkish football’s history. There’s no other player who combines global stardom, on-field excellence, and commercial appeal like Salah.”
Salah’s credentials speak for themselves: three Premier League titles (2015 with Chelsea, 2020 and 2025 with Liverpool) and a Champions League victory in 2019. His arrival would dwarf previous marquee signings, such as Portuguese winger Quaresma (154 matches for Besiktas) or Nigerian striker Osimhen’s move to Galatasaray in 2024. “Salah isn’t just a footballer; he’s Egypt’s unofficial ambassador,” notes Caner Isbegendiren of Fanatik, though he cautions the deal remains in flux.
Besiktas’ desperation for revival
The club’s decline since their 2021 Süper Lig title has left fans disillusioned. Besiktas now trails behind arch-rivals Galatasaray, Fenerbahçe, and Trabzonspor, finishing fourth last season. The frustration is palpable. A viral video even showed a supporter waking from anesthesia, immediately checking his phone for news of Salah’s signing.
Besiktas has already made one high-profile move this summer, securing Belgian winger Leandro Trossard from Arsenal for €18 million. Trossard, a recent English Premier League champion, was greeted by 20,000 cheering fans—many chanting Salah’s name. Tutel believes Salah could catalyze further blockbuster arrivals: “Besiktas needs to build a balanced squad around him, something they’ve lacked in recent years.”
Ali, a 32-year-old fan, was seen outside the stadium’s shop, where he plans to wait for Salah’s jersey rather than buy the new season’s shirt. “If he signs, the store—and the airport—will be swarmed with fans eager to welcome him,” he predicts.
What’s next?
While negotiations are reportedly advanced, the agent of the Egyptian star has urged caution, tempering expectations. Still, the buzz is undeniable. Besiktas’ ailing squad could receive a lifeline, and their rivals may soon face a new hierarchy in Turkish football.
