“We’re waiting for the announcement,” exclaims Taha, a Besiktas supporter, seated on the stadium steps overlooking the Bosphorus. The young fan scrolls through his phone, tracking every update on Mohamed Salah (34), the free agent who could soon don the Black Eagles’ jersey. According to local reports, an agreement has been reached for a one-year deal with options, worth €12 million plus bonuses.

A historic signing that transcends sports

Eren Tutel, Besiktas analyst and journalist, emphasizes the unprecedented nature of this potential transfer: “This could easily become the most significant signing in the club’s history—and perhaps even Turkish football. I can’t think of another player who combines such sporting excellence, global recognition, and commercial appeal.”

Why Salah stands above other legends

Salah’s arrival would eclipse the impact of past stars like Quaresma, a Besiktas icon from 2015–2019, or Victor Osimhen’s move to Galatasaray in 2024. “He brings a bigger trophy haul,” notes Caner Isbegendiren of Fanatik, pointing to Salah’s three Premier League titles (2015 with Chelsea, 2020 and 2025 with Liverpool) and his 2019 Champions League victory. Beyond his accolades, Salah embodies Egypt’s pride as its most beloved athlete—a true national ambassador.

Besiktas’ desperate need for a game-changer

Since winning the league in 2021, Besiktas has struggled, finishing fourth last season as rivals Galatasaray, Fenerbahçe, and Trabzonspor dominated. The club’s recent signing of Leandro Trossard from Arsenal for €18 million—a 31-year-old recent English champion—was met with chants for Salah during his presentation before 20,000 fans. “Bringing Salah in could attract other top names,” Tutel argues, stressing the need to build a balanced squad around the Egyptian star.

Fans like Ali, draped in the team’s colors, are already planning their trips to the club store under the stadium. “I’ll wait to buy his jersey,” he says. If the deal is confirmed, both the store and Istanbul Airport will be overwhelmed by Salah’s arrival.