🔥 Trending Kelechi Iheanacho's Transfer to Turkey: What You Need to Know

Kelechi Iheanacho Completes Transfer to Turkish Club Bursaspor

Nigerian striker Kelechi Iheanacho has officially completed his transfer to the Turkish club Bursaspor. The move was confirmed on July 17, 2026, with Bursaspor announcing his arrival and sharing an unveiling video on their social media platforms ¹⁴.

Key Details of the Transfer

• New Club: Bursaspor ¹⁴⁵
• Contract Duration: While some reports indicate a three-year contract ¹, others suggest a one-year switch ².
• Previous Club: Celtic ²³⁶
• Reason for Move: Iheanacho reportedly turned down a new contract offer from Celtic after his previous contract option lapsed ²⁶⁹. He had helped Celtic achieve a league and Cup Double last season ³.
• Club's Ambition: Bursaspor, a newly promoted club, is actively building a competitive squad with the aim of returning to the Süper Lig ¹⁴. They dominated the 2025-26 TFF 2. Lig season, securing the title and automatic promotion to the TFF 1. Lig (the second tier of Turkish football) ⁷.
• Arrival in Turkey: Iheanacho has already arrived in Turkey and has been officially confirmed as a Bursaspor player ⁴.

Background and Context

The transfer follows a period of speculation regarding Iheanacho's future at Celtic. Turkish journalist Ertan Süzgün had previously reported that Iheanacho had agreed to move to Turkey ³. Despite talks to extend his stay at Celtic, no deal was reached, leading to his departure ³⁶.

Iheanacho, who is 29 years old, joins other Nigerian players like Victor Osimhen, Paul Onuachu, and Chibuike Nwaiwu who are also playing in Turkey ⁵⁸. His move is seen as a significant signing for Bursaspor as they aim to strengthen their squad for the upcoming season in the TFF 1. Lig ⁴⁷.