Salah to Besiktas? Football’s transfer window centre stage after World Cup

What the report says

Al Jazeera reported on July 21, 2026, that Mohamed Salah’s next club has become one of the central storylines of the post-World Cup transfer window. The outlet said the Egypt forward is a free agent after leaving Liverpool, following Egypt’s round-of-16 exit to Argentina at the FIFA World Cup 2026. With clubs preparing for the new season, Al Jazeera framed Salah’s future as the leading question in a market heavy on rumours and contract speculation.

The report said Besiktas are viewed as prominent contenders, with social media claims suggesting a verbal agreement may already exist, though no confirmed deal was cited. A move to Istanbul would carry sporting and commercial appeal for Besiktas, who finished fourth in the Turkish league and are set to begin Europa League qualifying against Midtjylland. Al Jazeera also noted that Saudi Pro League interest has been discussed for some time, while Major League Soccer could see Salah as a major global attraction.

The article also considered Liverpool’s task of moving on from Salah under new manager Andoni Iraola. Bradley Barcola and Michael Olise were named among possible attacking options, although Iraola was described as cautious about immediately replacing Salah in a way that would create direct comparisons.

Beyond Salah, Al Jazeera highlighted other possible summer storylines, including Marcus Rashford’s uncertain status after a Barcelona loan, reported links involving Jude Bellingham and Kylian Mbappe at Real Madrid, and speculation around Jamal Musiala and Julian Alvarez. The wider significance is that the World Cup’s end has shifted football attention quickly back to club recruitment.