Amid the significant activity in the transfer market in the Saudi Professional League, and the increasing speculation about potential international deals, the management of the Turkish club Besiktas broke its silence to clarify the truth about the news circulating recently regarding the transfer of the Portuguese star Rafa Silva to the ranks of the Saudi Al-Ahli club during the current winter transfer period.
Decisive statements deny negotiations
In an exclusive interview with the Saudi newspaper Okaz, Serdal Adalı, president of Turkish club Beşiktaş, revealed the club's official stance regarding the potential departure of their star player. Adalı categorically denied any official approaches from the Saudi side, stating, "There are no official offers or even verbal negotiations, whether from Al-Ahli or any other Saudi club, to sign Rafa Silva." This statement effectively puts an end to the recent media speculation linking the player to Al-Ahli.
The impossibility of a free transfer and contract details
In a related development, the president of the Turkish club responded to rumors circulating about the player's desire to terminate his contract and move on a free transfer, asserting that this was "impossible." He explained that Beşiktaş's management would not allow the player to leave without a transfer fee commensurate with his value, as Silva is under contract until the end of the 2026-2027 season. According to the global website Transfermarkt, the player's current market value is approximately €5 million, meaning that any transfer would require serious financial negotiations and not simply a contract termination settlement.
The context of Al Ahly's interest and strengthening the attack
Rafa Silva's name has been linked to Al-Ahli as the club's management seeks to bolster the team's attacking prowess for the second half of the season. Al-Ahli is competing strongly in the Saudi Professional League and aspires to achieve a high ranking that would secure continental participation and allow them to compete for domestic titles. This desire to strengthen the squad aligns with the sporting revolution underway in the Kingdom, where Saudi clubs have become a preferred destination for top European stars, making the connection of a player of Rafa Silva's stature to Saudi clubs a logical step given the current state of the global sports market.
Player statistics and career achievements
Rafa Silva is a valuable asset to any team, given his tactical versatility and ability to play as an attacking midfielder, as well as his proficiency as a winger or center forward. He has proven his worth this season with Besiktas, participating in 16 matches across all competitions and contributing to 8 goals (5 goals and 3 assists). His extensive international and European experience, particularly his previous successful spell with Portuguese club Benfica, makes him an attractive target for clubs seeking both quality and experience.
