Besiktas are reportedly in advanced negotiations to bring Al Hilal striker Darwin Nunez to Istanbul on loan, in a move that could see the Uruguayan form a high-profile attacking partnership with Mohamed Salah next season.
Turkish media reports earlier this summer claimed Besiktas had reached an agreement with former Liverpool forward Salah on a one-year contract worth around €12m, with an option to extend the deal for a further season.
According to journalist Sacha Tavolieri, the Turkish club are now closing in on a deal for Nunez, who is currently on the books of Saudi Pro League side Al Hilal. The proposed move would see the 25-year-old join on loan until the end of the upcoming campaign.
Negotiations reported to be at advanced stage
Tavolieri reports that talks between Besiktas, Al Hilal and Nunez have accelerated in recent hours, with all sides moving closer to a final agreement. The deal is said to be edging towards completion amid a strong desire from the player to return to European football.
Nunez only joined Al Hilal in the most recent transfer window, but his spell with the Riyadh club – known as “Al-Za’eem” – has not unfolded as expected. That disappointing start has opened the door to a swift departure, with several European clubs believed to have expressed an interest in signing him.
Besiktas appear to be at the front of the queue, with the Istanbul side looking to significantly upgrade their attacking options ahead of the new season.
Potential high-profile partnership
Should Besiktas finalise both deals, the club would head into the campaign with a front line led by Salah and Nunez – a combination that would represent one of the most eye-catching attacking duos in the Turkish Super Lig.
The potential arrival of the Egypt international on a lucrative short-term contract, combined with the loan signing of a high-profile Uruguayan striker from Al Hilal, would mark one of the most ambitious transfer moves of the current window in Turkey.
Besiktas, who are seeking to re-establish themselves as title contenders domestically and improve their standing in European competition, are aiming to make a statement in the market after a challenging period on the pitch.
While no official confirmation has yet been issued by Besiktas, Al Hilal or the players’ representatives, the reported progress in negotiations suggests an agreement for Nunez is closer than at any previous stage, with his wish to return to Europe a central factor driving the discussions.
