“We’re waiting for the announcement.” That’s the message echoing from the steps of Besiktas’ stadium in Istanbul, where supporters like Taha scan their phones for any update on Mohamed Salah (34). The Egyptian star, now a free agent, is reportedly close to signing a one-year deal with Istanbul’s club, renewable, worth €12 million plus bonuses.

“This could be the biggest transfer in Besiktas’ history — and even in Turkish football.” That’s the verdict from Eren Tutel, a leading Besiktas analyst and journalist. “No other signing combines this level of sporting quality, global fame, and commercial impact.”

Besiktas in crisis: can Salah reverse the fortunes?

Since winning the league in 2021, Besiktas has slipped behind rivals Galatasaray, Fenerbahçe, and Trabzonspor, finishing fourth last season. The mood among fans is somber. A viral video shows one supporter waking from anesthesia, immediately checking his phone for news of the deal. The anticipation is palpable.

Another fan, Sahit, ranks Salah’s potential arrival above past legends like Quaresma (who played 154 matches between 2015 and 2019) and Osimhen’s move to Galatasaray in 2024. “Salah brings a bigger trophy haul.” The Egyptian star has won the Premier League three times (2015 with Chelsea, 2020 and 2025 with Liverpool) and the Champions League in 2019. “He’s also Egypt’s most popular personality — a true ambassador for the country.” Caner Isbegendiren, a reporter for Fanatik, notes the deal is still in negotiation phase.

To turn things around, Besiktas has already moved quickly, securing Belgian winger Leandro Trossard from Arsenal for €18 million. The 31-year-old, a recent English champion, was introduced to 20,000 fans last Thursday. The chants of Salah’s name filled the stadium. “Besiktas needs to build a balanced team around him — something they’ve lacked in recent years,” says Eren Tutel.

Outside the stadium shop, Ali, 32, wearing a black-and-white scarf, explains his plan: “I’m here for the new season kits, but I’ll wait to buy Salah’s number 11.” If the deal goes through, both the club store and Istanbul Airport will be swarmed by fans eager to welcome the Egyptian star.