Besiktas Open Talks to Sign Japan International Joel Chima Fujita from Sint-Truiden

2025-06-27 HAN, June

PERTH, AUSTRALIA - JUNE 05: Joel Chima Fujita of Japan passes the ball during the 2026 FIFA World Cup Round Three AFC Asian Qualifier match between Australia Socceroos and Japan at Optus Stadium on June 05, 2025 in Perth, Australia. (Photo by James Worsfold/Getty Images)

Turkish giants Besiktas have initiated formal contact with Belgian club Sint-Truiden over a potential move for Japan international midfielder Joel Chima Fujita, according to Belgian journalist Sacha Tavolieri.

The 23-year-old is attracting increasing interest across Europe following an impressive 2024–25 campaign in the Belgian Pro League. Fujita, who joined Sint-Truiden from Yokohama F. Marinos in 2023, has firmly established himself as a first-choice central midfielder, making 27 appearances in all competitions last season and playing a pivotal role in stabilising the club's midfield.

Tavolieri reports that Besiktas, long-time admirers of the player, have tabled a significant proposal to secure Fujita on a permanent deal. The Istanbul-based club have moved quickly following prior interest from Greek side AEK Athens, and are understood to have opened discussions with Sint-Truiden to negotiate terms.

Crucially, Fujita is said to be keen on the move, viewing the opportunity to join one of Turkey's most prestigious clubs as a major step forward in his career. Besiktas, who previously hosted Japanese icon Shinji Kagawa in 2019, remain an attractive destination for Asian players looking to make a greater impact on the European stage.

SAITAMA, JAPAN - MARCH 25: Joel Chima Fujita of Japan reacts after the scoreless draw in the FIFA World Cup qualifier Asian third round Group C match between Japan and Saudi Arabia at Saitama Stadium on March 25, 2025 in Saitama, Japan. (Photo by Koji Watanabe/Getty Images)

Fujita has also continued to feature in the plans of Japan national team manager Hajime Moriyasu, earning multiple senior call-ups throughout 2024. His disciplined positional play, vision in possession, and tactical maturity have made him one of Japan’s most promising central midfielders, particularly in the absence of long-time mainstay Wataru Endo.

Should a deal be struck, the move would not only mark a significant chapter in Fujita’s career but also signal Besiktas’ intent to reshape their midfield with younger, dynamic profiles. Talks are still at an early stage, and while no agreement has been finalised, all parties are reportedly optimistic.

A move to the Süper Lig could see Fujita become the next in a growing line of Japanese internationals excelling in Europe’s top-flight leagues — and the potential fee involved suggests Besiktas are serious about bringing him to Vodafone Park.