If Cerny Leaves, Beşiktaş Could Reopen Luiz Henrique Talks
Beşiktaş has reportedly kept the possibility of signing Brazilian winger Luiz Henrique on its agenda, although the transfer is currently considered unlikely. The club could return to negotiations if Vaclav Cerny leaves before the transfer window closes.
The black-and-white club had explored a late move for the Zenit player on the final day of the European transfer window. The plan was reportedly dependent on Cerny being transferred to Rangers. Had that departure been completed, Beşiktaş would have attempted to bring Luiz Henrique to Istanbul.
However, head coach Italiano indicated that he was satisfied with Cerny’s presence on the right flank, particularly with Poku available as another option. The coach is believed to have asked the club to prioritize other positions, including midfield targets such as Koopmeiners and Fofana. As a result, Beşiktaş ultimately focused its efforts on Fofana and decided not to proceed with a separate operation for Luiz Henrique.
That decision could still change. If Cerny finds a new club before the deadline, Beşiktaş may once again consider making an offer for the Brazilian winger. Nevertheless, the financial conditions surrounding the deal make such a move difficult.
Luiz Henrique remains one of the most discussed players on the European transfer market. The 25-year-old, who has also represented Brazil at international level, began the 2026/27 campaign with Zenit. He has made six official appearances so far but has yet to register a goal or assist.
His asking price is the main obstacle. Roma reportedly offered Zenit €38 million up front, with a further €5 million in potential bonuses, taking the proposed package to €43 million. Zenit refused to lower its demands, prompting the Italian club to withdraw from the negotiations and turn its attention to Stuttgart winger Jamie Leweling.
Flamengo also considered signing Luiz Henrique but abandoned the idea after encountering the same financial barrier. With both Roma and Flamengo unable to reach an agreement, Beşiktaş faces a major challenge if it wants to compete for the player’s signature.
The club’s situation is further complicated by its own transfer priorities. While Luiz Henrique would provide pace, one-on-one ability and attacking quality on the right wing, Beşiktaş must also strengthen its defense and midfield depth. Several supporters believe that a central defender and a creative number 10 are more urgent requirements than another wide attacker.
Cerny’s future therefore remains central to the club’s planning. If he stays, the right side is likely to be considered sufficiently covered alongside Poku and the existing squad options. If he departs, however, Beşiktaş could suddenly need a replacement with similar technical qualities and the ability to make an immediate impact.
A potential Luiz Henrique transfer would also require a significant financial commitment. The reported €43 million package demanded by Zenit is far beyond what Beşiktaş can comfortably spend under normal conditions. Any move would probably depend on player sales, a structured payment plan, bonuses or an agreement involving a temporary transfer.
The timing is another important factor. With the transfer deadline approaching, Beşiktaş has limited room for lengthy negotiations. Zenit’s firm stance suggests that the Russian club has no immediate need to sell and can wait for a financially stronger offer. This puts the Turkish side in a difficult bargaining position.
From a sporting perspective, Luiz Henrique would offer qualities that Beşiktaş has occasionally lacked. He can operate as a traditional right winger, attack space behind the defense and create chances without relying solely on crosses. His individual skill could also help the team break down opponents defending in a compact shape.
At the same time, his recent lack of statistical production may raise questions. Six matches without a goal or assist does not necessarily indicate a long-term problem, particularly at the beginning of a season, but it could affect how the club evaluates the player’s current form and market value.
The debate over the transfer has also highlighted broader concerns about squad construction. Some fans argue that Beşiktaş should have completed a major overhaul on the right flank, while others believe Cerny should remain and that defensive reinforcements are more pressing. The need for one or two fast, technically capable midfielders and at least one left-footed center-back has also been emphasized.
There are also calls to protect the development of younger midfielders already in the squad. Some supporters feel that adding several players in the number six or number eight positions could limit the progress of Orkun, Salih, Olaitan and Miretti. In their view, the club should strengthen the squad without blocking the pathway of its existing young talents.
Defensive depth remains one of the most frequently mentioned weaknesses. If Ndidi stays, Beşiktaş may still need at least two central defenders to provide balance and cover. The club is also expected to consider full-backs capable of playing on both sides and contributing to a faster style of football.
The title race adds further pressure. Galatasaray is viewed by many observers as the leading contender, while Fenerbahçe and Trabzonspor are also expected to compete strongly. Beşiktaş’s chances could improve if its rivals are distracted by Champions League fixtures, but that advantage would only matter if the black-and-white side has enough depth to handle its own demanding schedule.
For now, the Luiz Henrique operation remains conditional rather than active. Beşiktaş has not completely abandoned the Brazilian, but there is no clear indication that a deal is close. The most realistic scenario is that the club will monitor Cerny’s situation until the deadline and only reopen negotiations if the winger leaves.
Unless those conditions change, Beşiktaş is more likely to focus on defensive and central midfield requirements. Luiz Henrique remains an attractive target, but his transfer fee, Zenit’s position and the club’s limited budget make the move extremely complicated.