Nigerian international Kelechi Iheanacho has officially joined Turkish side Bursaspor on a three-year contract, bringing an end to his stint with Scottish champions Celtic.
The 29-year-old Super Eagles forward completed the move after his contract with the Scottish Premiership giants expired at the end of June, becoming one of Bursaspor’s marquee signings ahead of the 2026/27 season.
Iheanacho leaves Celtic after playing an important role in the club’s successful campaign, helping the Hoops secure a domestic double. During his time in Glasgow, the Nigerian striker made 24 appearances, scoring nine goals, including crucial strikes during the league title run-in and in the Scottish Cup final victory over Dunfermline.
Freshly promoted to Turkey’s 1. Lig, Bursaspor have made no secret of their ambition to secure an immediate return to the Turkish Süper Lig. The club reportedly moved swiftly to complete the signing, with negotiations concluded in less than 24 hours after presenting Iheanacho with an attractive financial package and a clear long-term sporting vision.
The transfer marks another chapter in the striker’s well-travelled European career.
After leaving Leicester City in 2024, Iheanacho enjoyed spells with Sevilla and Middlesbrough before reviving his career at Celtic, where he rediscovered his goalscoring touch and helped the club win major honours.
Despite Celtic manager Martin O’Neill reportedly expressing interest in keeping the Nigerian, the Scottish champions chose not to activate the extension clause in his contract, allowing Iheanacho to leave as a free agent.
The move also sees Iheanacho join a growing list of Nigerian stars currently playing in Turkish football, alongside players such as Victor Osimhen, Paul Onuachu, and Chibuike Nwaiwu, further strengthening Nigeria’s presence in the country’s football landscape.
Bursaspor officially welcomed their new signing with a creative Odyssey-themed announcement video, reflecting the club’s excitement and ambition as preparations continue for the new campaign.
For Iheanacho, the move offers the opportunity to play regular first-team football while maintaining his place in the Super Eagles squad. The experienced forward has already earned 58 international caps and scored 15 goals for Nigeria, remaining an important option in the national team’s attack.
While some observers may view the transfer to Turkey’s second division as a step away from Europe’s elite leagues, others see it as a chance for the Nigerian striker to enjoy stability, consistent playing time, and a leading role in an ambitious project as he approaches his 30th birthday.With Bursaspor targeting an immediate return to the Turkish top flight, expectations will be high for Iheanacho to provide the goals and experience needed to lead the promotion charge.
Nigerian fans will be hoping Kelechi Iheanacho can rediscover his best form in Turkey and continue making valuable contributions for both Bursaspor and the Super Eagles.
