Turkish international midfielder Salih Özcan has officially joined Beşiktaş, signing a 3+1-year contract with the Istanbul club after leaving Borussia Dortmund as a free agent. The transfer was announced by Beşiktaş on July 9, 2026, as the club looks to bolster its squad ahead of the upcoming 2026-27 season.

Özcan's Excitement for New Chapter

Following a closed training session at Beşiktaş's preseason camp in Slovakia, the 28-year-old expressed his enthusiasm about joining one of Türkiye's most prominent clubs. "Beşiktaş is a big family. It is truly a huge club," Özcan stated. He added that the warm welcome he received from the team has made him even happier and he is eager for the season to commence.

Experience and National Team Connection

Born in Cologne, Germany, on January 11, 1998, Özcan brings significant Bundesliga experience to Beşiktaş, having played for both Borussia Dortmund and 1. FC Köln. As a regular member of Türkiye's national team, he is anticipated to enhance Beşiktaş's midfield with his defensive skills and tactical awareness.

Özcan also revealed that his decision to join Beşiktaş was influenced by fellow Türkiye international Orkun Kökçü. Their friendship and successful collaboration on the national team played a crucial role in his transfer. "Playing with Orkun is something I really enjoy," he remarked, highlighting their compatibility on the pitch. He noted that Kökçü's support during the transfer process was invaluable, as they maintained communication throughout.

Ambitions for the Season

As Özcan prepares for the upcoming season, he is expected to form a key midfield partnership with Kökçü, providing defensive stability while Kökçü focuses on creating scoring opportunities. With high aspirations for success in both the Süper Lig and the Europa League, Özcan's arrival is seen as a significant step for Beşiktaş as they aim for glory in the new campaign.