"We're monitoring every development closely," said an MLS insider as Mohamed Salah hit the market following his early contract termination with Liverpool in March 2026. The Egyptian forward immediately became the most coveted free agent worldwide, igniting a fierce chase largely led by MLS franchises like Inter Miami and San Diego FC. However, what was expected to be a smooth transfer took a sudden twist when a potential deal with Turkish heavyweight Besiktas collapsed unexpectedly.
The drama unfolded when Besiktas president Serdal Adali revealed that talks fell apart over hefty agent commission demands estimated around 35%. This breakdown exposed the financial complexities and behind-the-scenes negotiations that high-profile transfers entail. Adali's firm stance effectively halted Besiktas' pursuit, signaling a reluctance to absorb such intermediary costs that could severely impact the club's budget amid Turkey's limited league revenues. This exit leaves Salah's options even more open, intensifying MLS competition to secure a player with a massive global following.
American clubs wasted no time advancing their interest. San Diego FC’s ownership publicly confirmed the pursuit days after Salah’s Liverpool exit announcement, while Inter Miami also remains in contention. MLS Commissioner Don Garber fueled speculation further in early April 2026, hinting at widespread league enthusiasm for landing Salah. The forward's arrival could shake up MLS's international appeal, particularly in regions like the Middle East and Africa where Salah commands a devoted fan base but MLS has little exposure to date.
Salah’s Liverpool exit reshapes more than just Premier League lineups Liverpool now faces the challenge of replacing one of their most effective scorers after reported internal tensions emerged back in late 2025. Meanwhile, the failed Besiktas deal shows the significant use agents hold in record-breaking transfers, raising questions about salary structures and fees that MLS franchises must navigate if they want to compete. Inter Miami’s aggressive recruitment exemplifies how MLS is raising its profile in the global transfer market, but the price tags and agent fees remain wildcards in these negotiations.
