Hunting for the captain! Liverpool ready to battle for Turkish giant's leader
The Merseyside club are looking to bolster their midfield with a standout player from the Turkish league.
Details: Liverpool are showing serious interest in 25-year-old Besiktas captain Orkun Kökçü. According to Turkish outlet Fanatik, the Merseyside club's scouts are closely monitoring the Turkey international, viewing him as a potential addition to the squad under Andoni Iraola. At least two other Premier League clubs are also involved in the race for the midfielder.
This season, Vincenzo Italiano has taken the Istanbul side's performances to a new level, with Kökçü emerging as the key conductor of the team's attacks. The Turkish midfielder's impressive displays have attracted attention from clubs across the English Channel, although Besiktas' hierarchy are exercising the utmost caution. The Black and Whites have no intention of rushing into a separation with their leader and will only make a decision on incoming offers after detailed consultations with Italiano's coaching staff.
It is worth noting that during the 2025/26 season, Kökçü represented Besiktas on loan from Portuguese club Benfica, before the Istanbul side made his move permanent in summer 2026 for €30 million. At present, respected portal Transfermarkt values the 25-year-old midfielder at €25 million.
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Kenley Ward
Dailysports's expert