Nigerian international Kelechi Iheanacho has completed a free transfer to Turkish side Bursaspor, bringing an end to speculation over his future after leaving Scottish champions Celtic at the expiration of his contract. The 29-year-old striker signed a three-year deal with the club on Friday.
Bursaspor confirmed the signing in an official announcement, describing the arrival of the Super Eagles forward as one of the club’s biggest transfer coups as it prepares for a promotion push back to the Turkish Super Lig.
The former Manchester City forward was available as a free agent after his short spell at Celtic, where he enjoyed a resurgence last season. Iheanacho scored nine goals and registered one assist in 24 appearances, helping the Glasgow giants win the Scottish Premiership title and the Scottish Cup.
His move to Turkey comes despite reported interest from Celtic to retain his services, while clubs in Brazil and elsewhere in Europe were also linked with the Nigerian before Bursaspor secured his signature.
Iheanacho first rose to prominence after winning the FIFA U-17 World Cup with Nigeria in 2013, where he claimed the Golden Ball as the tournament’s best player. His dazzling performances earned him a move to Manchester City, where he broke into the first team under Manuel Pellegrini.
In 2017, he joined Leicester City, spending seven seasons with the Foxes and becoming one of the club’s most dependable forwards. He played a key role in Leicester’s historic FA Cup triumph in 2021 and was instrumental in the club’s domestic campaigns with crucial goals across several competitions.
The striker later had spells with Sevilla in Spain and Middlesbrough in England before reviving his career at Celtic, where his decisive goals during the title run restored his reputation as a clinical finisher in big matches.
On the international stage, Iheanacho has remained a regular for the Super Eagles. He has made 58 appearances for Nigeria, scoring 15 goals, and has represented the country at major continental tournaments, establishing himself as one of Nigeria’s most experienced attackers.
