Besiktas eye Raheem Sterling after signing Kökçü amid Chelsea exit talks
Turkish giants Besiktas are in active negotiations to sign Raheem Sterling, following their recent high-profile acquisition of Orkun Kökçü from Benfica. According to Sabah, the club is closely monitoring the English winger’s situation at Chelsea, where he has struggled for game time.
Sterling’s Future at Chelsea Uncertain
The 30-year-old forward, under contract at Stamford Bridge until June 2027, has seen a significant dip in both form and market value. Once valued at €160 million in 2019, his current valuation has dropped to €10 million, per Transfermarkt.
Besiktas hopes to capitalize on this downturn to secure a marquee signing at a reduced cost, as part of its broader strategy to strengthen the squad for the 2025–26 Süper Lig title race.
Competition Heats Up for Sterling’s Signature
Besiktas isn’t alone in its pursuit. Juventus, West Ham, and Fulham have also expressed interest in the former Manchester City and Liverpool star. Each club is assessing the viability of adding Sterling, whose experience and pace remain attractive despite recent underwhelming performances.
However, Besiktas aims to act quickly, potentially inviting Sterling to Istanbul for direct talks. The move would signal the club’s ambition to return to dominance in Turkish football after several seasons without a domestic title.
Besiktas Building a Competitive Squad
The pursuit of Sterling follows the impactful signing of Kökçü, a move that has already energized the fanbase and set the tone for a busy transfer window. Club officials have confirmed plans for further reinforcements, with a focus on experienced European players capable of making an immediate impact.
Should the transfer go through, Sterling would become one of the most high-profile players in the Süper Lig—a significant statement of intent by the Istanbul-based club.
