Kelechi Iheanacho, the Nigerian international striker, has opted against signing a new deal with Scottish Premiership champions Celtic, choosing instead to join Bursaspor, a team newly promoted to Turkey's second-tier league. The 29-year-old's departure comes despite Celtic tabling a fresh offer following his contributions to their domestic double-winning campaign last season.
Iheanacho, formerly of Manchester City and Leicester City, had a significant impact at Celtic Park, despite an injury-plagued season. He scored nine goals, including six off the bench, as the Glasgow club secured the Scottish league and cup Double. He initially joined Celtic as a free agent in 2025, after the summer transfer window had closed.
Bursaspor, who were crowned champions of the TFF Second League last season, officially announced Iheanacho's signing, parading him in their green and white colours. This unexpected move sees the striker join a club in Turkey's TFF First League, a considerable shift from competing in European football with Celtic.
The news follows comments from Celtic chief executive Michael Nicholson, who revealed yesterday that the club was finding it challenging to bring in new players this summer. Nicholson cited competition from financially robust English Championship clubs as a significant hurdle in their recruitment efforts. So far, Celtic have only secured one new signing: Colombian striker Camilo Duran from Qarabag for an undisclosed fee.
Iheanacho's exit further exacerbates Celtic's current shortage of centre-forward options ahead of the new season. Uncertainty also surrounds the future of Japan international Daizen Maeda, who is entering the final year of his contract, adding to the pressure on the club's attacking lineup.