Besiktas confirm Pepe departure

Portugal defender Pepe has had his contract terminated by Besiktas, with the Istanbul-based club in the process of slashing their wage bill amid struggles with growing debts.

The former Real Madrid star’s deal was not due to expire until June 2019, but Besiktas have been left with no choice but to terminate his deal as a result of ongoing financial issues.

The club released a statement confirming Pepe’s departure and thanking him for his efforts on Monday.

It has been reported that Pepe left a cash tip for several staff members who have worked alongside him in recent years.

The centre-back is said to have been one of the highest earners in the Besiktas squad after signing a two-year deal with the Turkish side following the expiration of his Real Madrid contract in 2017.

The deal was apparently worth €9.5 million (£9m/$11m) before bonuses and it has also been claimed that Pepe received a hefty bonus after every match he participated in.

He has left the club on good terms and said farewell when he attended their 2-2 draw with Trabzonspor at the Vodafone Park Stadium on Sunday.