« We’re on the edge of our seats », declares Taha, a Besiktas fan perched on the stadium steps overlooking the Bosphorus. His phone is glued to his hand as he refreshes transfer updates about Mohamed Salah (34), the free agent who appears close to finalizing a one-year deal renewable for €12 million plus bonuses with the Istanbul-based club.

A transfer with historic implications

Eren Tutel, Besiktas specialist and BirGün columnist, emphasizes the magnitude of such a signing: « This could be the most significant transfer in the club’s history—and possibly the entire Turkish league. No other signing combines global stature, commercial appeal, and on-field quality quite like Salah. »

Sahit, another fan gathered outside the stadium, ranks Salah above even club legends like Quaresma (2015–2019) and Osimhen’s move to Galatasaray in 2024. « His trophy cabinet speaks for itself: three Premier League titles (2015 with Chelsea, 2020 and 2025 with Liverpool) and a Champions League crown in 2019. Beyond that, he’s Egypt’s most beloved figure—a true national ambassador. »

Besiktas’ desperate need for a spark

Since clinching the 2021 league title, Besiktas has struggled to keep pace with rivals Galatasaray, Fenerbahçe, and Trabzonspor, finishing fourth last season. The club’s morale has plummeted, but Salah’s potential arrival could reverse the tide. The team’s emblem—a soaring eagle—has yet to find its wings this campaign.

To bolster their attack, Besiktas recently signed Leandro Trossard from Arsenal for €18 million. The Belgian winger (31) was unveiled to 20,000 fans last Thursday, with chants of Salah’s name echoing through the stands. Tutel notes: « A balanced squad must be built around him—a luxury Besiktas has lacked in recent years. »

Ali, a 32-year-old fan draped in Besiktas colors, heads toward the stadium shop. « I’m here for the new-season jerseys, but I’ll wait—Salah’s shirt will fly off the shelves. » If the deal materializes, the club’s store, airport, and streets will erupt in celebration.