Joao Mario becomes 7th Benfica player to join Besiktas
Portuguese footballer Joao Mario, whom Besiktas plans to recruit, poses for a photo with Besiktas scarf, after arriving at Istanbul Airport from Lisbon, Portugal to hold transfer talks with the club as he is welcomed by club officials in Istanbul, Turkiye on September 03, 2024 (AA Photo)
Besiktas continues its transfer efforts to win the Turkish Super Lig and achieve success in European competitions this season.
The club has signed Portuguese star Joao Mario from Benfica.
Joao Mario arrived in Istanbul from Lisbon via a Turkish Airlines flight and will undergo a medical check-up at the airport. After signing the official contract, he will become part of Besiktas.
At 31 years old, Joao Mario offers a versatile midfield presence. He is effective both centrally and on the flanks. Last season, he played 51 matches for Benfica, 45 of which were starters, and scored nine goals while providing four assists.
Additionally, he won the European Championship and the UEFA Nations League with the Portuguese national team.
Besiktas’ transfer strategy
Besides Joao Mario, Besiktas has also signed Gabriel Paulista, Ciro Immobile, Rafa Silva, Can Keles, Emirhan Topcu, Cher Ndour, and Felix Uduokhai.
Portuguese players Gedson Fernandes, Rafa Silva, and Joao Mario, along with Al Musrati, will strengthen the midfield.
Joao Mario has signed a 1+2 year contract with Besiktas. This season, he will play on loan, and Besiktas will complete his permanent transfer in 2025, with payments made in installments.
Besiktas’ transfers from Benfica
Besiktas has historically made several transfers from Portuguese club Benfica. The following are the players who have joined Besiktas from Benfica:
- Simao Sabrosa (2010-2012)
- Manuel Fernandes (2011-2014)
- Anderson Talisca (2016-2018)
- Gedson Fernandes (2022)
- Rafa Silva (2024)
- Cher Ndour (2022)
- Joao Mario (2024)
Besiktas is continuing its transfer activities in preparation for the Super Lig, which ends on Sept. 13; it is also finalizing its squad for the UEFA European competition by the deadline of Sept. 4.
