Besiktas focus on Rafael Leao after Salah talks hit problems | OneFootball

There are reports Besiktas have started talks with Milan for Rafael Leao, combined with suggestions their negotiations with Mohamed Salah failed to reach an agreement.

The two stories may very well be connected, because the Turkish club is seeking big signings for the summer under Italian coach Vincenzo Italiano.

Besiktas turn to Leao after Salah?

LEEDS, ENGLAND – DECEMBER 06: Mohamed Salah of Liverpool arrives at the stadium prior to the Premier League match between Leeds United and Liverpool at Elland Road on December 06, 2025 in Leeds, England. (Photo by Molly Darlington/Getty Images)

Salah had seemingly been on the verge of signing on as a free agent after his contract with Liverpool ran down on June 30 and he had agreed personal terms.

However, it is today reported in A Spor that they hit a critical obstacle, namely the share of revenue from shirt sales and the agent’s commission.

BOLOGNA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 03: Rafael Leao of AC Milan during the Serie A match between Bologna FC 1909 and AC Milan at Renato Dall’Ara Stadium on February 03, 2026 in Bologna, Italy. (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)

This has blocked the entire affair, and at the same time Belgian transfer pundit Sacha Tavolieri noted that Besiktas had been in concrete talks with Milan for Leao.

The problem remains the same as for Galatasaray and Fenerbahce, specifically that Milan will only accept a pure cash sale for €50-60m and not a loan with option to buy.

Leao is also not going to even consider Turkish football unless he gets at least €8m per season in wages, plus bonuses.

If the budget set aside for Salah is instead used to tempt Leao, then it could see progress.