In a significant development for the January transfer window, Besiktas manager Sergen Yalcin has officially confirmed the departure of striker Tammy Abraham from the Turkish Super Lig club. This announcement comes ahead of Abraham's widely anticipated move to Aston Villa, marking a swift transition for the English forward.
Manager Confirms Departure After League Draw
Yalcin addressed Abraham's exit following Besiktas's 2-2 draw with Eyupspor on Monday, a match from which the striker was notably absent from the squad. The manager's comments provide clear confirmation of the player's imminent departure, stating that the club has benefited financially from recent sales, including Abraham's.
Permanent Transfer from Roma Facilitates Villa Move
Earlier on Monday, Besiktas had formally triggered the permanent transfer clause for Abraham from AS Roma, having initially secured him on a loan deal. This strategic move allowed the Istanbul-based club to immediately sell the player onward. The club's official statement detailed: "The terms of the transfer contract of professional football player Kevin Oghenetega Tamaraebi Bakumo-Abraham have been fulfilled, and the provision for the player's permanent transfer has come into effect. Accordingly, a transfer fee of €13,000,000 will be paid to AS Roma S.p.A."
This procedural step was essential to facilitate Abraham's expected transfer to Aston Villa, with reports indicating Villa are set to pay Besiktas a fee in the region of €21 million to secure his signature.
Financial Impact and Club Transformation
Manager Yalcin highlighted the broader financial context of Abraham's sale, linking it to the departure of teammate Rafa Silva. "The departures of Rafa Silva and Abraham alone have given the club a €60 million advantage going forward," Yalcin remarked, underscoring the significant revenue generated.
He further elaborated on the club's current strategic position, noting: "Besiktas is undergoing a significant transformation. We did the right things regarding departures, but we were late in filling the gaps. Every player we pursue comes up with figures around €25-30 million. This makes things difficult. Perhaps we could act more freely in the summer." This statement points to the challenges faced in the current transfer market as the club seeks to rebuild its squad.
Abraham's Return to Villa Park
For Aston Villa, the move represents a homecoming of sorts. Tammy Abraham previously enjoyed a successful loan spell at Villa Park from Chelsea earlier in his career, contributing significantly to the club's promotion push. His expected return is seen as a major coup for Villa as they look to strengthen their attacking options for the remainder of the season.
While an official announcement from Aston Villa is still pending, Yalcin's confirmation effectively signals the completion of Abraham's tenure in Turkey and sets the stage for his next chapter in the Premier League. The swift nature of this transfer, facilitated by Besiktas's activation of the permanent clause, demonstrates the complex, multi-club negotiations that characterise modern football's transfer windows.
