Salah to Besiktas? Football’s transfer window centre stage after World Cup

Mohamed Salah, the Egyptian forward whose performances captivated audiences during the FIFA World Cup 2026, is now at the center of intense transfer speculation. With the tournament concluded and the global focus shifting back to club football, Salah's potential move has sparked widespread interest among fans and analysts alike. The 31-year-old, who played a pivotal role for Egypt despite their early exit in the round of 16, is reportedly set to leave Liverpool, having spent over a decade with the Merseyside club. Reports suggest that Salah is considering a return to Turkey, with Besiktas Istanbul emerging as a leading contender. According to social media chatter and insider whispers, a verbal agreement between the player and the club may already be in place. This potential move comes amid pressure on Besiktas to improve its performance in the Turkish Super Lig, where they finished fourth last season. A high-profile signing such as Salah could provide both tactical and financial benefits, particularly as the club prepares for the Europa League qualifiers. While a return to Europe remains a possibility, the prospect of Salah moving to the Saudi Pro League or Major League Soccer (MLS) in the United States has also gained traction. The Saudi Arabian league, which has been aggressively pursuing top-tier talent, sees Salah as a potential symbol of success and influence. His reputation as one of Africa’s finest players and a standout figure in European football makes him an attractive asset for any league looking to elevate its profile. In the U.S., the MLS faces a unique opportunity as it seeks to bolster its roster with world-class talent. Although Lionel Messi continues to anchor the league, the Argentine’s recent World Cup exit has raised questions about his future both internationally and professionally. Salah’s potential arrival could serve as a major boost for the league, offering fans a familiar face while adding competitive depth. Beyond his on-field contributions, Salah has garnered admiration for his conduct off the pitch. During the World Cup, he demonstrated leadership by stepping in to de-escalate tensions between teammates and officials, showcasing a maturity that resonates beyond mere athletic prowess. His popularity spans continents, making him a cultural icon in regions ranging from Europe and Africa to the Middle East, Asia, and the Americas. As Salah’s future hangs in the balance, Liverpool faces the daunting task of finding a suitable replacement. New manager Andoni Iraola has acknowledged the difficulty of replacing a player of Salah’s caliber, noting the immense expectations that accompany such a transition. Potential targets include Bradley Barcola and Michael Olise, both currently under contract with Paris Saint-Germain and Bayern Munich respectively. However, Iraola has expressed a preference for avoiding premature signings, aiming to minimize pressure on any new addition. The situation surrounding Salah’s potential move to Saudi Arabia remains unclear. While the link between the player and the Saudi Pro League has persisted for some time, no definitive decision has been made. The Saudi Public Investment Fund has previously stated its willingness to support Salah’s transfer should he choose to pursue opportunities abroad. As the transfer window progresses, further clarity is expected regarding Salah’s ultimate destination.