Besiktas are set to begin formal negotiations with Rangers over a potential deal for striker Youssef Chermiti, with the Turkish club’s planned transfer formula now revealed by sources in Istanbul.
The Black Eagles are actively strengthening their squad ahead of next season as they aim to challenge for the Super Lig title. Their search for a powerful striker to complement South Korean forward Hyeun-gyu Oh has brought them to Glasgow, where 22-year-old Chermiti has emerged as the primary target.
According to Turkish outlet Fotomac, Besiktas are preparing to open direct club-to-club talks with Rangers in the coming days. This development is likely to surprise many Gers supporters, given Chermiti’s impressive turnaround at Ibrox following a difficult adaptation period in Scottish football.
Loan Formula Revealed as Besiktas Plot Chermiti Raid
Reports from Turkey indicate that Besiktas plan to pursue Chermiti primarily on a loan basis, rather than a permanent transfer. The proposed formula would allow the Turkish giants to assess the striker’s fit within their tactical system without immediately meeting Rangers’ full valuation.
This approach includes options for a season-long loan with a potential purchase obligation or future fee, giving Besiktas flexibility while limiting their initial financial exposure. The move reflects a calculated strategy from the Istanbul club as they balance ambitious squad building with financial prudence.
Chermiti’s physical attributes — standing tall at over 6ft with excellent aerial ability, strength, and mobility — have particularly impressed Besiktas’ recruitment team. They view him as the ideal profile to lead the line and provide a different dimension alongside Oh.
Rangers’ Stance: Why a Loan Makes Little Sense
For Rangers, entertaining a loan move for Chermiti appears highly unlikely. The Light Blues invested significantly in the Portuguese forward, signing him from Everton for around £8 million last year. Allowing him to leave temporarily would contradict the club’s strategy of building around young, high-potential talents.
Chermiti has shown remarkable improvement throughout the season. After a slow start plagued by adaptation issues and limited minutes, he finished the campaign as one of Rangers’ standout performers. His two hat-tricks, including a stunning long-range volley against Falkirk, highlighted his growing confidence and ability to deliver in big moments.
Manager Philippe Clement (or successor) has publicly praised the striker’s work ethic and development. Chermiti now represents exactly the type of asset Rangers should be nurturing rather than loaning out to a rival league.
Chermiti’s Journey: From Everton to Ibrox Hero
Youssef Chermiti arrived at Rangers with high expectations after Everton’s decision to cash in on the young talent. Initially, the transition to Scottish football proved challenging, with questions raised about his consistency and physical readiness for the intensity of the Premiership.
However, the 22-year-old showed character and determination. Regular appearances in the second half of the season saw him develop into a more complete centre-forward. His hold-up play improved dramatically, and his finishing — particularly with his head and from distance — became a potent weapon for the Gers.
Supporters have warmed to the forward, appreciating his work rate off the ball and his ability to occupy defenders. Many view him as a long-term successor to veteran strikers and a key part of Rangers’ rebuild.
Financial Context and Previous Interest
Rangers’ resolve is strengthened by past interest in the player. In the January transfer window, the club reportedly rejected a £13 million offer from Turkish rivals Fenerbahce. This came less than 18 months after his arrival from Everton, underlining the value the Ibrox hierarchy place on him.
A loan to Besiktas would risk disrupting Chermiti’s momentum and potentially handing a European rival the benefit of his continued growth. With the player still only 22, his ceiling remains high, and regular first-team football at Rangers in domestic and European competitions offers a clearer pathway for development.
From a business perspective, selling or loaning him now could represent poor asset management. Rangers paid a club-record fee for a project player, and that project is finally delivering consistent output.
Should Rangers Entertain the Offer?
The short answer remains a firm no. Chermiti is improving rapidly and has proven he can perform at the highest level in Scotland. Loaning him out could stall his progress and damage squad morale at a time when Rangers need continuity.
Besiktas’ interest is understandable — they need firepower to compete with Galatasaray and Fenerbahce in a highly competitive Super Lig. However, Rangers must prioritise their own ambitions, both domestically in the Premiership and in European campaigns.
If Besiktas return with a permanent offer significantly above the £13m previously rejected, a conversation might occur. But a straight loan with minimal guarantees offers Rangers zero incentive, especially as they look to strengthen rather than weaken their attacking options this summer.
What This Means for Both Clubs
For Besiktas, landing Chermiti — even temporarily — would be a statement signing as they push for silverware. The club has been active in the market, targeting young talents with resale value and immediate impact.
For Rangers, this reported interest serves as validation of their recruitment strategy. Successfully integrating players like Chermiti is crucial as they aim to close the gap on Celtic and mount credible challenges in Europe.
The coming weeks will be decisive as the summer transfer window opens. Rangers are expected to be busy, with potential incomings and outgoings across several positions. However, parting ways with one of their brightest young prospects on a cut-price or temporary deal seems unlikely based on current signals.
Chermiti himself may have ambitions to stay and fight for a regular starting berth at Ibrox, especially with European football on offer. His recent form suggests he is ready to take the next step in Glasgow rather than restart the adaptation process in a new league.
Stay tuned to Rangers news outlets for further updates on this developing story. Will Besiktas push harder for a loan, or will Rangers shut the door firmly? The transfer saga surrounding Youssef Chermiti is only just beginning.
