New Besiktas president to prioritise Onuachu transfer in January

Paul Onuachu at AFCON 2023 with Nigeria | Imago

New Besiktas president to prioritise Onuachu transfer in January

Ayoola Kelechi 22:15 - 30.12.2024

Nigeria's towering striker Paul Onuachu's potential move to Besiktas has received a boost after the club's recent general elections

Besiktas has ushered in a new era under Serdal Adali, who emerged victorious in the club’s extraordinary general assembly.

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With over 12,800 members casting their votes, Adali’s election represents a significant moment for Besiktas and his plans for the club include a push for key transfers, particularly Nigerian striker Paul Onuachu.

Besiktas elect new president

Serdal Adali has been elected as the 36th president of Besiktas Sports Club, promising immediate changes for the Turkish giants.

New Besiktas president Serdal Adali | Turkey Today
New Besiktas president Serdal Adali | Turkey Today

Adali secured a decisive victory in Besiktas’s extraordinary general assembly, garnering over 8,900 votes, and in his acceptance speech, he promised to address the club’s financial woes, including a $52 million cash injection due by May 2025.

Serdal Adali hopes to rebuild Besiktas | Turkiye Today
Serdal Adali hopes to rebuild Besiktas | Turkiye Today Serdal Adali hopes to rebuild Besiktas | Turkiye Today

Speaking for the first time as Besiktas president, Adali said, “This is a victory for Besiktas. We will bring Besiktas to the days it deserves. The support of every Besiktas fan will make this possible.”

Besiktas eye Onuachu, other targets

Adali outlined plans to revamp the club’s scouting system to attract world-class players. A critical component of this initiative is the pursuit of Southampton striker Onuachu.

Paul Onuachu against West Ham | CNA
Paul Onuachu against West Ham | CNA Paul Onuachu against West Ham | CNA

The towering Nigerian forward is seen as a key addition to bolster Besiktas’s attacking options, with the club reportedly exploring a loan deal to bring Onuachu to Istanbul in January.

Beyond Onuachu, Besiktas are also reportedly targeting Fulham’s Adama Traore for a permanent transfer as part of Adali’s efforts to rebuild the team following inconsistent performances this season.

Alex Iwobi and Adama Traore after one of the goals.

With Besiktas languishing in 6th place after only seven wins in 16 Super Lig matches, the Istanbul club will be desperate to get marquee signings to get their season back on track.