Kelechi Iheanacho Joins Turkey's Bursaspor After Celtic Stint

Nigerian international striker Kelechi Iheanacho has completed a transfer to Turkish side Bursaspor, opting for a new challenge after rejecting a contract extension with Scottish champions Celtic. The 29-year-old forward leaves Glasgow after contributing to Celtic's domestic league and cup double, despite an injury-plagued season.

Celtic had made efforts to retain Iheanacho by offering him new terms. However, the former Leicester City and Manchester City player chose to pursue opportunities in Turkey. Bursaspor, recently promoted to the Turkish second tier, officially announced the signing and presented the Nigerian international in their club colors.

Iheanacho's move occurs during a difficult transfer period for Celtic. Club CEO Michael Nicholson acknowledged the challenges in strengthening the squad, noting that the Scottish champions face competition from financially stronger English Championship clubs. Celtic has made only one signing this summer, Colombian striker Camilo Duran, and faces uncertainty regarding the future of Daizen Maeda, whose contract is nearing its end.

Iheanacho joined Celtic as a free agent in 2025 after leaving Sevilla. Despite a significant hamstring injury that limited his starts after October, he scored nine goals across all competitions, including six as a substitute. His contributions were vital in Celtic's final nine matches, securing both the Scottish Premiership title and the Scottish Cup.