Besiktas are closing in on one of the most high-profile transfers of the summer, with Mohamed Salah reportedly agreeing in principle to continue his career in Turkey.
The Egyptian player is available on a free transfer after a highly successful spell at Liverpool.
Clubs from Saudi Arabia and the United States have expressed interest, but Salah’s preference for European football strengthens Besiktas’ position.
According to reports, a one-year deal with an annual salary of 12 million euros plus the option for a further season is being considered.
Although the deal has not been formally announced, there is growing confidence in Istanbul that a deal could be reached soon.
Salah agrees in principle with Turkish giants
According to Niccolo Sila of X, Salah has reached an agreement in principle on a contract until 2027 and is close to joining Besiktas as a free agent with an option to extend until 2028.
Mr. Sila reports that the value of the proposed agreement would be 12 million euros per year.
Besiktas head coach Vincenzo Italiano is also making a personal push to convince the former Liverpool winger that his sporting project is the right one.
The Turkish club believes the transfer could be completed within the next few days, although final paperwork and financial details still need to be worked out.
Previous negotiations have reportedly hit a snag over Salah’s request for a representative, but the latest information suggests those hurdles may be close to being cleared.
Historic deal will change expectations in Istanbul
Daily Sabah reports that Salah remains a top target in Besiktas’ ambitious rebuild under Italiano, with the club maintaining direct contact as they seek to resolve remaining financial issues.
From a football perspective, this would be a remarkable deal.
Salah may be in the latter stages of his career, but his goals, experience and global profile could quickly raise Besiktas’ level on and off the pitch.
This move makes sense for everyone. Salah will remain in European competition and be the centerpiece of an ambitious project, while Besiktas will be signing a genuine superstar without paying a transfer fee.
The salary package will be substantial and expectations will be very high.
However, there are few free agent opportunities that can offer this combination of proven quality and global commercial appeal.
If Besiktas completes the deal, it could be one of the most important transfers in Turkish football history.
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