Mohamed Salah is edging closer to a summer transfer to Besiktas, with the Turkish club tabling an official offer for the Egyptian winger on a free transfer. The proposed deal spans two years with an estimated annual salary of €15 million, marking a significant shift in the 32-year-old's career trajectory after nearly a decade at Liverpool.
Why Turkish Football Over the Middle East?
According to marketing consultant Amr El-Rawy, Salah's preference for Turkish football over lucrative Saudi League offers reflects both his mentality and legacy concerns. "Mohamed Salah wishes to conclude his journey in a refined and satisfying manner, especially as he no longer needs to provide any further proof to any party," El-Rawy explained on the Al-Nahar channel. This reasoning suggests the forward seeks a final chapter that prioritises quality competition over financial maximisation.
The decision to reject Premier League moves demonstrates Salah's protective stance toward his Liverpool legacy. Remaining in England to compete against his former club could complicate his storied relationship with the Anfield faithful. By moving abroad, he preserves what has become one of football's most cherished narratives: a player who dominated English football and departs on his own terms, rather than fading into anonymity on domestic shores.
Europe Remains the Priority
Crucially, Salah has ruled out Saudi Arabia entirely, signalling his determination to remain in Europe's competitive landscape. This choice separates him from fellow ageing stars who have chased substantial Middle Eastern contracts. Besiktas emerged as the logical destination—a European giant competing in the Turkish Super Lig with genuine continental ambitions in the UEFA Champions League.
- Two-year contract offer from Besiktas
- Estimated €15 million annual salary
- Free transfer agreement with Liverpool
- Commitment to European football over Saudi League
With over 150 goals and countless assists during his time in English football, Salah's next move at Besiktas will represent his first stint outside the Premier League since 2016. Whether the Turkish Super Lig can provide the competitive standard he seeks will define how this final chapter unfolds for one of modern football's most prolific attacking talents.
