Beşiktaş halts Salah talks: Önder Özen explains why

Significant developments are unfolding regarding Beşiktaş’s negotiations for Salah, a transfer eagerly anticipated by the fans. Önder Özen shared the behind-the-scenes details of the talks with the global star, explaining exactly why the process has come to a standstill.

According to Özen’s statements, the club held three initial meetings with Salah, whom he described as a highly respected athlete, without delving into financial matters. During this phase, everything progressed smoothly, and a specific financing model was prepared for the transfer. However, once the financial discussions began on July 21st, the initial fluency was lost and replaced by a severe deadlock. Özen highlighted that the flow of information slowed down significantly, accompanied by new demands that complicated the agreement. He also noted his assumption that the respected athlete himself might be unaware of these emerging complications.

The turning point of the process revolved around agent commissions and the club’s unwavering principles. Reminding the public that player representation involves legal boundaries and fixed commission limits, Özen stated that exceeding these thresholds would constitute an illegal situation—something Beşiktaş would never involve itself in. He emphasized that the President avoided a populist decision, choosing instead to protect the club's values by stepping away from the negotiating table for now. Maintaining the club’s ethical and financial axis was underscored as far more important than signing any athlete, regardless of their value.

Addressing questions on whether the deal is completely dead, Özen provided a clear framework, not closing the doors entirely but showing a firm stance. He stated that Beşiktaş has already submitted its best offer under its current conditions and confirmed that the club will not make another proposal. While the file is currently shelved, it could be re-evaluated if a positive response to this existing offer is received from the player's side. It was also noted that the player's representatives are reportedly in talks with other clubs.

Image: Birgün