Orkun Kokcu to join up with Ole Gunnar Solskjaer at Besiktas as Benfica midfielder snubs Newcastle, Inter and Saudi Arabia interest

According to Fabrizio Romano, Kokcu has informed Benfica that he wants to join Turkish club Besiktas amid interest from several top European clubs, including Newcastle and Inter. Both clubs are close to reaching an agreement, with Besiktas president Serdal Adali reportedly traveling to Lisbon for a second round of negotiations. Kokcu joined Benfica on a five-year deal for a fee of €25 million (£22m/$28m).

Despite enjoying a productive season at Benfica last year, getting 12 goals and 11 assists in all competitions, the Turkish international has decided to move on following a heated argument with head coach Bruno Lage. The midfielder grew frustrated after being substituted during a Club World Cup match against Auckland City and reacted angrily on the sideline.

The Portuguese club reportedly set a price tag around €40 million (£34m/$46m), with Newcastle, Liverpool, Manchester United, Inter and other clubs keen to sign the midfielder. Galatasaray and Fenerbahce also made contact with the player, but Kokcu has made Besiktas his preferred destination.

According to Turkey Today, Besiktas have reached a verbal agreement with Kokcu. The deal will be an initial loan with a mandatory purchase option at the end of the season. Benfica, who were initially reluctant to accept the proposal, have now agreed in principle to the terms.

With a verbal agreement in place for Kokcu, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's Besiktas are now working to finalise the paperwork and seal the deal with Benfica.