By Francis Onyach - Reporter
Turkey , June 05, 2026 - Beşiktaş are reportedly making strong progress in their pursuit of Italian coach Vincenzo Italiano, with talks advancing toward a two-year contract that would see the former Bologna manager take charge of the Turkish giants ahead of the new season.
Multiple reports from Italian and Turkish media indicate that Beşiktaş have already opened formal communication with Italiano following his departure from Bologna, where he ended a successful but demanding spell that included a Coppa Italia triumph and European qualification campaigns.
The Istanbul club are understood to view Italiano as a key candidate in their ongoing search for stability and long-term direction after a turbulent managerial period. Beşiktaş have changed coaches frequently in recent seasons, and the board is now aiming to bring in a tactically defined manager capable of building a consistent playing identity.
Italiano, who built his reputation at Spezia and later Fiorentina, is widely respected for his aggressive, possession-based style of football. His teams are known for high pressing, structured build-up play, and tactical flexibility across systems such as 4-3-3 and 4-2-3-1.
That profile is believed to strongly appeal to Beşiktaş decision-makers, who are looking to modernise the squad’s approach both domestically and in European competition.
Reports suggest that negotiations have included discussion of a two-year deal with an option for extension, while salary terms are also being finalised. Early indications from sources close to the talks claim that an agreement is increasingly likely, although no official signing has yet been confirmed.
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Beşiktaş’s interest comes at a time when several European clubs are reshuffling their managerial positions, with Italiano emerging as one of the most in-demand coaches available after leaving Serie A. His stock remains high despite Bologna’s mixed domestic finish last season, largely due to his ability to improve squads and implement a clear footballing identity.
At the same time, Beşiktaş are undergoing their own rebuild after a season of inconsistency in the Turkish Super Lig, where they struggled to keep pace with their city rivals. The club’s leadership believes that securing a high-profile European coach could be a turning point in restoring competitiveness and ambition.
For Italiano, a move to Istanbul would represent his first major coaching challenge outside Italy. It would also offer the opportunity to compete in a passionate football environment with strong expectations, while leading a club with a rich history and consistent European ambitions.
While final details are still being negotiated, the situation is rapidly developing. If talks conclude successfully, Beşiktaş could soon officially announce Vincenzo Italiano as their new head coach on a long-term project aimed at restoring the club’s domestic dominance and strengthening its European presence.