«We’re just waiting for the official announcement», exclaims Taha, a Besiktas supporter perched on the stadium steps by the Bosphorus. The 24-year-old scans his phone, refreshing news about Mohamed Salah (34), the free agent whose potential move to the Turkish club has sent shockwaves through the football world. Local reports suggest a one-year deal with an option for renewal, valued at €12 million including performance bonuses—an agreement that could soon be finalized.

Why Salah’s transfer would be historic for Besiktas and Turkey

Eren Tutel, a seasoned Besiktas analyst and journalist for BirGün, puts the potential signing into perspective: «This could easily become the most significant transfer in the club’s history—and possibly the entire Turkish league». What sets Salah apart isn’t just his on-field brilliance; it’s his global star power, unmatched trophy cabinet, and commercial appeal. A three-time Premier League winner (2015 with Chelsea, 2020 and 2025 with Liverpool) and a Champions League champion (2019), Salah arrives in Turkey with a legacy few can match. «He’s not just a player; he’s an ambassador for Egypt, a national icon», notes Caner Isbegendiren of Fanatik, though he cautions that talks are still ongoing.

Supporter Sahit draws a direct comparison to past club legends: «Quaresma was a legend here, but Salah’s achievements surpass even those of Osimhen at Galatasaray in 2024». The Egyptian’s credentials—including his status as Africa’s most decorated footballer—make him a once-in-a-generation signing. His arrival would dwarf past transfers in terms of prestige, fan engagement, and marketability.

Besiktas’ struggles and the transformative power of Salah

Besiktas has hit hard times. Since clinching the league title in 2021, the club has slipped behind rivals Galatasaray, Fenerbahçe, and Trabzonspor, finishing fourth last season. Morale among fans is at an all-time low. Yet Salah’s potential arrival could reignite hope. «He’s exactly what we need to rebuild,» insists Tutel. «Besiktas must build a balanced team around him, something it’s lacked in recent years».

The club has already made a statement signing with Leandro Trossard, arriving from Arsenal for €18 million. The Belgian forward, aged 31 and fresh off an English title, was presented to 20,000 fans last Thursday. Chants of Salah’s name echoed through the stadium—a clear signal of what’s to come. «His presence could attract even more top names,» Tutel adds.

Fan frenzy: the commercial and emotional impact

At the club’s merchandise store beneath the stadium, Ali (32) browses the new-season jerseys. «I’ll wait to buy Salah’s shirt», he says. If the deal goes through, the store—and the airport—will be overwhelmed by fans eager to welcome the Egyptian superstar. His arrival would do more than boost on-field performance; it would transform Besiktas into a global brand overnight, drawing attention from sponsors, broadcasters, and football enthusiasts worldwide.

Yet, as Tutel warns, the deal isn’t sealed. While optimism abounds, the transfer market remains fluid. Salah’s agent has sought to temper expectations, though the buzz in Istanbul is undeniable. For now, fans like Taha remain glued to their screens, praying for the announcement that could change everything.