Beşiktaş Pursues Kerem Aktürkoğlu: A Potential Swap Deal with Benfica
Beşiktaş is aggressively continuing its efforts to bolster its squad, with a renewed focus on acquiring winger Kerem Aktürkoğlu from Portuguese side Benfica.This pursuit follows closely on the heels of securing Orkun Kökçü from Benfica, and the existing rapport between the two players is seen as a notable factor in perhaps swaying Aktürkoğlu to join the Istanbul club.
Leveraging Existing Connections
The strong relationship between Kökçü and Aktürkoğlu, forged through their shared experience representing the Turkish national team, is considered a key advantage for Beşiktaş. It’s believed Kökçü is actively encouraging his former Benfica teammate to consider a move. This dynamic mirrors triumphant player recruitment strategies seen across European football, where existing relationships can expedite negotiations and increase a player’s willingness to transfer.
Benfica’s Response Anticipated
Following Beşiktaş’s formal offer, attention now shifts to Benfica’s reaction. Beşiktaş officials are optimistic about adding a seasoned, internationally-capped player to their attacking options, specifically to enhance the team’s performance on the wings. Strengthening the domestic player quota within the squad is also a primary objective driving this transfer ambition. As of July 17,2025,Benfica has yet to publicly respond to the offer.
Proposed Player Exchange
To facilitate the transfer, Beşiktaş has proposed a player-plus-cash deal, offering Benfica midfielders Jean Onana and Al Musrati in exchange for Aktürkoğlu. This strategy reflects a common practice in modern football, allowing clubs to address multiple needs together and potentially navigate financial constraints. The 26-year-old Aktürkoğlu, capable of playing on either flank, is viewed as a valuable asset who could considerably impact Beşiktaş’s attacking prowess.
The success of this proposed swap hinges on Benfica’s valuation of Onana and Musrati, and their own squad requirements for the upcoming season. Negotiations are expected to be complex, but beşiktaş appears persistent to secure aktürkoğlu’s services.