« We’re waiting for the announcement », declares Taha, a Besiktas fan seated on the stadium steps in Istanbul this Saturday evening. His eyes glued to his phone, he scans the latest news about Mohamed Salah (34), the free agent who appears poised to join the Turkish club. According to local reports, a one-year renewable contract worth €12 million, including bonuses, is reportedly agreed.

« This could easily be the biggest transfer in club history, and perhaps even in Turkish football », states Eren Tutel, Besiktas specialist and journalist for BirGün. I can’t think of another signing that combines such sporting prowess, global recognition, and commercial power.

Besiktas in crisis: Salah’s arrival could attract more top talents

In Istanbul, anticipation is palpable. A video circulating online shows a fan waking from surgery, immediately asking if Salah has signed. Since their 2021 title, morale among supporters has plummeted as Besiktas languishes behind rivals Galatasaray, Fenerbahçe, and Trabzonspor, finishing fourth last season.

To reverse fortunes, Besiktas has already swooped for Leandro Trossard from Arsenal for €18 million. Last Thursday, the 31-year-old Belgian—recent English champion—was presented to 20,000 fans, with chants of the Egyptian left-winger’s name ringing through the stands. His arrival could pave the way for more high-profile signings, notes Eren Tutel: « Besiktas needs to build a balanced team around him, something they’ve lacked in recent years. »

At the club shop beneath the stadium, Ali, 32, in a black-and-white scarf, heads toward the new season merchandise. « I’m here for the new jerseys, but I’ll wait to buy Salah’s », he says. If the deal is finalized, the store—and the airport—will be overwhelmed by fans eager to welcome the Egyptian star.