AFCON 2025
Nigerian striker Kelechi Iheanacho has completed a move to Turkish side Bursaspor ahead of the 2026/27 season. The Nigerian forward has opted to continue his career in Turkey after turning down the chance to remain at Scottish champions Celtic.
Celtic manager Martin O’Neill had reportedly wanted to keep the 29-year-old at Parkhead, but Iheanacho chose a fresh challenge in the Turkish second tier instead. Bursaspor confirmed the deal through their official X account, welcoming him with the message: “Ailemize Hoş Geldin, Kelechi Iheanacho / Welcome to our family, Kelechi Iheanacho.”
Bursaspor dramatically unveiled Kelechi Iheanacho, dressing the Nigerian forward as a Roman soldier for the club’s welcome video. The clip features Iheanacho aboard a ship, kitted out in full costume complete with a sword and bow, playing into the “conquest” theme often used for marquee signings.
Bursaspor are chasing promotion back to the Süper Lig this season, and the club’s management sees the Nigerian forward’s arrival as one of the transfer window’s most significant moves. Iheanacho visited the Timsah Arena after putting pen to paper, and the transfer was met with strong enthusiasm inside the club.
The former Leicester City forward enjoyed an impressive spell with Celtic last season, scoring nine goals in 24 appearances across all competitions. Across those outings, he also contributed one assist and played a role in Celtic winning both the league and the Scottish Cup last season.
Iheanacho’s career has taken him through several of Europe’s leading clubs. He has previously featured for Manchester City, Leicester City, Sevilla, Middlesbrough, and Celtic, and across 196 Premier League appearances, he scored 42 goals and provided 27 assists.
The striker has earned 58 caps for Nigeria’s Super Eagles, scoring 15 goals for his country. His move to Bursaspor adds another experienced attacking option as he enters a new phase of his career.
Bursaspor’s management worked hard to get the deal over the line. Celtic had wanted to extend his contract and keep him at the club, while Brazilian side Vasco da Gama were also reportedly in the running for his signature. Iheanacho ultimately chose Bursaspor, giving the Turkish outfit a proven goal-scorer as they push for promotion this season.
