Iheanacho shuns new Celtic deal opting instead for three year contract at Bursaspor

FORMER Super Eagles striker Kelechi Iheanacho has turned down the offer of extending his contracts as Scottish champions Glasgow Celtic and opted instead to join Turkish giants Bursaspor on a three year deal.                                                      

Iheanacho, 29, helped Celtic to win a domestic double last season, after joining as a free agent at the behest of then manager Brendan Rodgers, who needed another striker after the transfer window had shut. They had both worked together before at Leicester City and after underwhelming stints at Sevilla and Middlesbrough, Kelechi was clubless, so the two of them teamed up again.

After enjoying a good campaign last season, current manager Martin O'Neill is said to be keen to retain Iheanacho's services but the two sides are yet to reach an agreement. Kelechi was absent as the Scottish champions returned to Lennoxtown for pre-season preparations, despite the fact that he is keen on staying at the club.

Now, it appears that the striker is off to Turkey after reportedly reaching an agreement to join Bursaspor. Iheanacho moved to Celtic last summer after mutually terminating his contract with Spanish side Sevilla, where he endured a difficult 2024/25 campaign but he rediscovered his form in Scotland, playing an important role as Celtic lifted a domestic double.

His performances made him a valuable member of the squad but the Hoops opted against activating the purchase option in his contract at the end of the campaign, leaving his future uncertain. That decision sparked speculation over his next destination, with Celtic manager Martin O'Neill confirming the club have opened discussions over the possibility of a new agreement.

However, according to Yeni Açık TV reporter  Ertan Süzgün, Iheanacho has reached an agreement with Bursaspor and has signed a three-year contract that will keep him at the club until the summer of 2029. This move is expected to provide Bursaspor with a major attacking boost as they strengthen their squad ahead of the 2026/27 Turkish Super Lig campaign.

For Iheanacho, the transfer offers another opportunity to continue his career in European football after successful spells in England and Scotland. He will be expected to bring his experience, goalscoring ability and creativity to Bursaspor as the club look to make a strong impression in the upcoming season.