Mohamed Salah is set to become the highest-paid footballer in Turkish football history after completing his surprise move to Trabzonspor, with the Egyptian forward securing a record-breaking contract that includes a hefty annual salary, a signing bonus and a share of merchandise sales. Salah recently joined the Turkish Super Lig club on a free transfer after ending his Liverpool contract a year early, bringing an end to his nine-year stay at Anfield.
Record-breaking contract
According to multiple reports, Salah will earn €17 million annually under his two-year agreement, eclipsing the previous Turkish salary record held by Victor Osimhen, who reportedly earns €15 million per season at Galatasaray. The package also includes a €5 million signing bonus, making it one of the most lucrative contracts ever offered by a Turkish club. In addition to his salary, reports suggest Salah will receive 20 per cent of revenue generated from merchandise bearing his name, while image rights formed a key part of the negotiations.
Lower weekly wage, similar earnings
Although Salah's reported weekly salary in Turkey is lower than the estimated £400,000-a-week he earned during his final Liverpool contract, favourable tax conditions and commercial incentives could keep his overall take-home earnings at a comparable level. His Liverpool deal, including performance-related bonuses, was reportedly worth as much as £480,000 per week. Whether his total earnings at Trabzonspor reach similar levels will largely depend on merchandise sales and other contractual incentives.
Grand welcome in Turkey
Thousands of Trabzonspor supporters turned out to welcome Salah upon his arrival, with the Egyptian describing the reception as unlike anything he had previously experienced. Speaking after his unveiling, Salah said he was overwhelmed by the affection shown by the club's supporters. He said the large crowd at the airport reflected the passion of the fans and made him even more eager to begin training with his new teammates.
Eyes on trophies again
Salah said his objective remains unchanged despite joining a new league. He expressed his desire to help Trabzonspor compete for honours domestically and in Europe, saying he has always aimed to win trophies wherever he has played. Trabzonspor finished third in the Turkish Super Lig last season and will begin their European campaign in the UEFA Europa League play-offs, giving Salah another opportunity to compete on the continental stage. The move represents one of the biggest signings in Turkish football history and is expected to significantly boost the club's profile both on and off the pitch.