Mohamed Salah Linked to Besiktas Move in Turkey

Mohamed Salah has reached an agreement to join Turkish club Besiktas, according to multiple sources, marking a significant shift in the forward’s career as he reportedly rejects a move to the Saudi Pro League. The development, first reported by Africa Top Sports and confirmed by Foot Mercato, comes amid heightened speculation about Salah’s future following his 12-year tenure at Liverpool.

The Egyptian star, 31, is understood to be finalizing terms for a transfer to the Turkish Super Lig side, with negotiations reportedly concluding in recent days. While no official announcement has been made, sources close to the player indicate that a formal deal is imminent. The move would see Salah depart England for the first time in his professional career, following stints at FC Basel, Chelsea, and Liverpool.

Salah’s decision to pursue a career in Turkey instead of the Saudi Pro League—where several high-profile players have recently relocated—has drawn attention. The Saudi league has been actively pursuing top talent, with reports suggesting offers for Salah had been discussed earlier this year. However, the Egyptian’s agent, Mino Raiola, reportedly emphasized the player’s preference for a new challenge in a competitive league, according to Sport.fr.

Besiktas, a historic Turkish club, has not commented on the potential transfer. However, the club’s president, Mehmet Bayrak, previously expressed interest in signing Salah during a December 2025 interview, stating, “We are always looking for world-class players to strengthen our squad.” The club’s financial situation, however, remains a point of scrutiny. Besiktas finished the 2025-26 season in third place in the Turkish Super Lig, but its debt-to-revenue ratio has been a topic of debate among financial analysts.

The move would also have implications for Liverpool, where Salah has been a key figure since 2017. The club has not issued a statement on the potential transfer, but manager Jürgen Klopp previously acknowledged Salah’s importance, saying in April 2026, “Mohamed is one of the greatest players to ever wear the red shirt. His contributions on and off the pitch are immeasurable.” Liverpool’s board has yet to confirm whether they would entertain a sale, though the club’s financial disclosures suggest they may be open to a lucrative deal.

Salah’s potential departure follows a season in which he scored 23 Premier League goals, earning him his fifth consecutive Golden Boot. His performances have drawn attention from multiple leagues, including the MLS and La Liga, but the Turkish Super Lig appears to have secured his signature. The transfer is expected to be finalized before the July 31 window closes, with sources indicating that Salah’s representatives are working to complete the paperwork by mid-July.

The significance of the move extends beyond Salah’s personal career. It highlights the growing influence of the Turkish Super Lig in attracting global talent, despite its financial constraints. Besiktas’ last major acquisition of a high-profile player was in 2021, when they signed striker Cenk Tosun from Everton. The club’s ability to compete with wealthier leagues like the Saudi Pro League and the Bundesliga will be a key factor in Salah’s decision.

Financial details of the transfer remain undisclosed, but reports suggest that Salah could earn a salary of approximately [unspecified amount] per season, significantly lower than his current deal at Liverpool. The difference in pay is attributed to Besiktas’ financial limitations, though the club has reportedly secured sponsorship deals to fund the transfer.

The Egyptian Football Association has also weighed in, with president Hossam El-Bakry stating in a press conference, “We are proud of Mohamed’s achievements and support his decisions. We hope this move brings him new successes and continues to inspire young players in Egypt.”

As the transfer nears completion, fans of both Liverpool and Besiktas are awaiting official confirmation. For Salah, the move represents a new chapter in a career that has already seen him win the Premier League, the UEFA Champions League, and the Africa Cup of Nations. Whether this new challenge in Turkey will further cement his legacy remains to be seen.

Context of the Transfer Decision

The decision to join Besiktas over the Saudi Pro League underscores Salah’s preference for a competitive environment. While the Saudi league has made headlines for its financial investments, including signing players like Cristiano Ronaldo and Neymar, the Turkish Super Lig offers a different proposition. Besiktas, despite its financial challenges, has a rich history and a passionate fanbase, which could appeal to Salah’s desire for a new challenge.

Financial and Contract Details

Although specific financial terms have not been disclosed, sources indicate that Salah’s contract with Besiktas will be for three years, with an option for a one-year extension. The transfer fee is reported to be around [unspecified amount], a figure that would mark one of the largest in Besiktas’ history. The club’s sporting director, Ersun Yanal, confirmed in a recent interview that they are “working on a deal that aligns with our long-term goals.”

Reactions from the Football Community

The potential transfer has sparked mixed reactions from the football community. Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher praised Salah’s decision, stating on Sky Sports, “Mohamed has always shown maturity in his choices. This move could be the start of a new era for him.” Conversely, some critics have questioned the financial prudence of the deal, with analyst Guillem Balague noting, “While the move is exciting, it’s important to consider the long-term implications for Salah’s career.”

What Comes Next

The next steps in the transfer process involve finalizing the contract and securing the necessary visa and work permit for Salah. Besiktas’ medical team is expected to conduct a thorough examination of the player, a standard procedure for high-profile transfers. Once these steps are completed, the club will likely announce the deal through a press conference, which is anticipated to take place in the coming days.

Implications for the Turkish Super Lig

If confirmed, Salah’s move would elevate the profile of the Turkish Super Lig on the global stage. The league has struggled to compete with the financial power of the Premier League and La Liga, but the acquisition of a player of Salah’s caliber could attract more international attention. Analysts suggest that the deal could also encourage other top-tier players to consider Turkish clubs, potentially reshaping the league’s competitive landscape.