European clubs circle Besiktas players while coaching search heats up
Players of Besiktas celebrate after their team’s victory in the Turkish Super Lig week 15 football match between Besiktas and Fenerbahce at Tupras Stadium in Istanbul, Türkiye, on December 07, 2024. (AA Photo)
Besiktas‘s January transfer window is shaping up to bring significant changes.
Among the key developments is the future of Jean Onana, a 24-year-old midfielder who has struggled to secure a place in the team this season and is now surrounded by European clubs.
He has played only six matches for a total of 163 minutes, and multiple European clubs have shown interest in him.
European clubs, including OH Leuven, Angers and Nantes, pursue Jean Onana
Reports from African and Turkish sports media confirm that Belgian club OH Leuven is actively pursuing Jean Onana. The Cameroonian midfielder is familiar with Belgian football, having played for Mouscron during the 2020-21 season on loan from Lille.
French clubs Angers and Nantes have also entered talks to acquire Onana. These developments indicate that Besiktas plans to part ways with the player, who is under contract with the club until June 30, 2027.
Arthur Masuaku gains interest from Greek club AEK
Arthur Masuaku, another Besiktas player, has attracted interest from AEK. Greek media report that AEK has included Masuaku on their list of candidates for the left-back position. Fans have criticized Masuaku for his performance, and his contract with Besiktas is set to end this season, making a mid-season transfer possible.
Besiktas’ struggles in the Turkish Super Lig have intensified the need for impactful changes during this transfer window. The team has achieved only one win in its last nine league matches. The most recent victory was against Fenerbahce on Dec. 7. Fans hope new signings will rejuvenate the squad and boost their league performance.
Besiktas searches for new head coach as candidates emerge
In addition to transfer activity, Besiktas is actively seeking a new head coach after Sergen Yalcin declined their offer due to personal reasons. Among the candidates is Edin Terzic, who expressed his openness to joining Besiktas if his ongoing talks with Tottenham do not materialize.
Terzic stated, “If things do not work out with Tottenham, I would not hesitate to return to a club I know very well.”
The Italian press has also linked Paulo Fonseca, who recently left Milan, to the position. Fonseca’s coaching history includes Roma, Lille, and Shakhtar Donetsk, making him a strong contender. Additionally, Ibrahim Uzulmez, a former Besiktas player, has confirmed his candidacy for the role, saying, “If chosen, I will take on this responsibility with pride.”
