Besiktas Targets Vlahovic for World Cup 2026 Boost After Abandoning Salah Pursuit

As the football world steadily turns its attention toward the FIFA World Cup 2026, the global transfer market is already buzzing with high-stakes moves that could heavily influence the international stage. According to Football Italia, Süper Lig giants Besiktas have officially confirmed they are in active negotiations to sign Serbian striker Dusan Vlahovic, a move that could significantly impact the striker's readiness for the upcoming global showpiece. Besiktas President Serdal Adali recently went on record to verify the club’s discussions regarding the out-of-favor Juventus forward. Under the fresh tactical guidance of manager Vincenzo Italiano, the Black Eagles are desperate to secure a prolific number nine. For Vlahovic, a potential move to Istanbul represents more than just a change of club scenery; it is a vital career pivot. With Serbia looking to make a deep tournament run in North America next summer, the towering forward desperately needs consistent, high-level minutes to secure his starting spot and stay sharp for his national team. Interestingly, the pursuit of Vlahovic comes on the heels of a surprisingly ambitious, yet ultimately abandoned, attempt to lure Liverpool icon Mohamed Salah to Turkey. Adali took a moment to explain exactly why the blockbuster Salah deal fell apart. The Besiktas president noted that while the ambition to bring in a player of the Egyptian King's caliber was very real, the insurmountable financial realities and logistical hurdles forced the club to step away. Salah, whose focus remains firmly on maintaining his elite form for his own international aspirations, was simply out of reach. With the Premier League star no longer on the table, Besiktas is throwing its full weight behind the Vlahovic operation. Securing a striker of his pedigree would send a massive statement of intent to the rest of the Turkish league and provide Italiano with the perfect focal point for his attacking system. Furthermore, having a highly motivated, World Cup-bound Vlahovic firing on all cylinders could give Besiktas the lethal edge they desperately crave. As national team managers across the globe closely monitor their squads ahead of the 2026 World Cup, keeping tabs on these pivotal club transfers is essential. A fully fit and in-form Vlahovic thriving at Besiktas could be the exact catalyst Serbia needs to mount a serious challenge on the world's biggest stage.