Beşiktaş coach Vincenzo Italiano breaks silence on Mohamed Salah transfer rumours

Beşiktaş coach Vincenzo Italiano has revealed that talks surrounding a possible move for Egyptian forward Mohamed Salah are currently on hold, as speculation over the Liverpool star’s future continues.

The Turkish club had been linked with a move for Salah, with reports suggesting they were exploring the possibility of bringing the experienced attacker to Istanbul.

However, Italiano indicated that the situation has slowed down while discussing Beşiktaş’s transfer plans ahead of their Europa League second-leg fixture against Midtjylland.

Speaking in an interview with Italian newspaper La Gazzetta dello Sport, Italiano was asked about the club’s transfer activity and provided an update on the Salah situation.

“Everything regarding Mohamed Salah’s transfer is on hold for now. But we have a great captain, Orkun Kökçü.”

The Italian coach also highlighted that Beşiktaş already possess a competitive squad but admitted that further additions would be necessary if they are to challenge the dominance of rivals Galatasaray in the Turkish Süper Lig.

Galatasaray have won the league title four consecutive times, and Italiano believes Beşiktaş must strengthen their squad with more quality players to compete at the highest level.

The coach did not reveal specific names but suggested that the club could look towards players from Bologna, where he previously worked, as they continue their search for reinforcements.

Beşiktaş’s interest in improving their squad comes as they aim to close the gap on the leading teams in Turkey. The club are expected to remain active in the transfer market as they look to add two or three new players before the window closes.

Salah’s name has attracted significant attention during the transfer period, with clubs continuing to monitor his situation. However, Italiano’s comments suggest that any potential move to Beşiktaş is not currently progressing.

The Egyptian international remains one of the most recognised forwards in world football, but the latest update from the Beşiktaş manager indicates that supporters may have to wait longer for clarity over whether the club will make a move for the former African Footballer of the Year.

For now, the focus at Beşiktaş remains on strengthening the squad and preparing for their European commitments, while the Salah transfer speculation appears to have entered a waiting period.