Besiktas set to acquire Portuguese defender Tiago Djalo to boost defense

FC Portos Portuguese defender Tiago Djalo celebrates scoring his teams first goal during the UEFA Europa League 1st round day 3 football match between FC Porto and Hoffenheim at the Dragao stadium, on October 24, 2024. (AFP Photo)

FC Portos Portuguese defender Tiago Djalo celebrates scoring his teams first goal during the UEFA Europa League 1st round day 3 football match between FC Porto and Hoffenheim at the Dragao stadium, on October 24, 2024. (AFP Photo)

According to Turkish media, Besiktas has signed Portuguese defender Tiago Emanuel Embalo Djalo to reinforce their backline. The 25-year-old, who combines physical strength with experience in Europe’s top leagues, arrives in Istanbul as the club prepares for a new era.

Player profile

Height/Position: 1.90 m, center-back; also capable at left-back and right-back
Style: Physically strong, aerially dominant, versatile, and experienced in multiple European leagues
Languages: Fluent in Portuguese, English, French, Cape Verde Creole, and Guinea-Bissau Creole, aiding team communication
Connection: Recommended by Burak Yilmaz from their time together at Lille

Lille's Portuguese defender Tiago Djalo controls the ball during an international club friendly football match between SL Benfica and Lille OSC at the Algarve stadium in Portimao, July 22, 2021. (AFP Photo)

Career overview

Birth & Youth: Born April 9, 2000, in Amadora, Portugal, to a Bissau-Guinean family. Started at CD Metralhas and developed at Damaiense and Sporting CP.
AC Milan (2019): Early exposure to Serie A, gained mental resilience despite limited game time.
Lille (2019–2024): Key contributor to Lille’s 2020-21 Ligue 1 title and 2021 Trophee des Champions win against PSG.
Juventus & Porto (2024): Transferred to Juventus, then loaned to Porto; played 17 matches and scored 2 goals, showing defensive and set-piece ability.

Players of Besiktas react after losing a goal during the UEFA Europa League second qualifying round first leg match between Besiktas and Shakhtar Donetsk at Tupras Stadium in Istanbul, Türkiye, July 24, 2025. (AA Photo)

What this means for Besiktas

Djalo’s arrival adds versatility and depth to Besiktas’ defense. His European experience and physical presence are expected to help him quickly adapt to the Super Lig.

After passing medical checks, he will officially sign and become a key figure in the team’s defensive rebuild.

August 26, 2025 03:31 PM GMT+03:00