Just days after missing out on Mohamed Salah, Turkish giants Besiktas have shifted their attention to another high-profile free agent, with club president Serdal Adali publicly confirming active negotiations to sign former Juventus striker Dusan Vlahovic.
What Happened
Speaking to Turkish media outlet Fanatik, Adali gave a transparent update on the club’s recruitment strategy, confirming Vlahovic as a primary target for the Super Lig side. He stated that the club is proceeding with transfers in line with a plan defined at the start of the season, directly acknowledging that talks with the Serbian striker are underway. Vlahovic has been a free agent since July 1, after his contract with Juventus was allowed to expire without renewal.
Why Besiktas Believe They Can Land Him
The Turkish club believes it holds a genuine advantage in this pursuit: head coach Vincenzo Italiano, who previously worked with Vlahovic during his time at Fiorentina. That existing relationship is seen as a potential deciding factor, given the forward’s familiarity with Italiano’s tactical approach and man-management style.
Besiktas also now have the financial flexibility to make a serious move, having abandoned their pursuit of Mohamed Salah after what club officials described as unacceptable demands, including a significant cut of merchandise sales and a large agent commission. That freed-up transfer budget is reportedly being redirected toward Vlahovic instead.
The Manchester United Angle
Besiktas aren’t operating without competition. Manchester United remain heavily linked with Vlahovic as a potential solution to their own attacking uncertainties, particularly given the club’s complicated situation with Joshua Zirkzee, who has struggled for consistent minutes and form. United are reportedly open to sanctioning a loan exit for Zirkzee, with Juventus emerging as a possible destination, which would leave United needing to fill the resulting gap in their forward line, potentially with Vlahovic himself.
Why Vlahovic Left Juventus
Vlahovic’s exit from Turin reflects a gradual decline in his standing at the club. He had fallen out of the first-choice picture following the arrival of Randal Kolo Muani, and while Juventus reportedly offered him a reduced-terms contract extension, he turned it down, effectively ending any realistic chance of a continued stay. Across his time in Turin, Vlahovic scored 68 goals in 168 appearances, making his free-agent availability a notable opportunity for clubs across Europe.
What Happens Next
With Besiktas now the most vocal and financially committed suitor, and Manchester United’s interest tied to how their own Zirkzee situation resolves, the coming days are likely to prove decisive. Given Adali’s direct, on-record confirmation of talks, Besiktas appear to be leading the race, though a move of this magnitude will likely take further negotiation before any formal announcement follows.