Besiktas signs Türkiye star Orkun Kokcu in $35M deal—childhood dream fulfilled

Besiktas has finalized an agreement with Benfica to sign Turkish midfielder Orkun Kokcu for a potential total fee of €30 million ($35.1 million). The 24-year-old is set to travel to Istanbul this weekend for medical examinations before signing a five-year contract.

The transfer structure involves a one-year loan with a mandatory €25 million purchase obligation activated upon Kokcu's first appearance for Besiktas. An additional €5 million in performance-based bonuses are included in the deal.

Kokcu, a lifelong Besiktas supporter, prioritized fulfilling his childhood dream over financial gain. He reportedly rejected offers from multiple high-profile clubs, including Premier League sides like Arsenal and Brighton, despite them offering significantly higher salaries. He also sacrificed pending salary payments from Benfica and accepted a lower wage at Besiktas.

Kokcu started his professional career at Feyenoord, rising to become club captain, before joining Benfica in 2023 for approximately €30 million. During his time at Benfica, he played 98 matches, scored 19 goals, provided 22 assists, and won the Portuguese League Cup and Super Cup.

He now returns to Turkey not only as a star player but as a devoted fan. At Besiktas, Kokcu will wear the number 10 shirt and serve as one of the team captains. A public signing ceremony at the stadium is planned.