Bright Osayi-Samuel convinced to stay at Fenerbahce amid Premier League desire

The Super Eagles star has established himself as a key figure in Fenerbahce’s squad, recently scoring the Yellow Canaries’ lone goal against Ankaragucu

Super Eagles defender, Bright Osayi-Samuel, has reportedly been convinced to remain at the Sukru Saracoglu Stadium amid transfer speculations, Soccernet.ng reports.

Earlier this year, Osayi-Samuel was linked with a move away from Istanbul, with AFC Bournemouth and Brentford FC expressing interest in his signature during and after the winter transfer window.

According to Turkish media outlet Fotomac, the newly appointed head coach, Ismail Kartal, played a pivotal role in persuading promising Nigerian star, along with several other players, to commit to the Istanbul-based club.

In a previous conversation with Soccernet.ng, Osayi-Samuel had earlier expressed his desire to play in the Premier League and was aware of interest from top clubs.

With his contract set to expire in June 2025 and Brentford prepared to offer €12 million for his services, there were expectations within the football community that Fenerbahce, who had acquired him from Queens Park Rangers for €508,000, would capitalize on the transfer opportunity.

However, reports from Turkey shed light on why Osayi-Samuel opted to remain with the club during the summer transfer window.

“İsmail Kartal convinced Osayi-Samuel, Ferdi Kadıoğlu, İsmail Yüksek, Miha Zajc and İrfan Can Kahveci, who were unhappy at the beginning of the season, to stay in the team after his speeches.” the report reads.

Despite the transfer speculation, Osayi-Samuel continues to showcase his talent as a formidable wingback. He recently scored Fenerbahce's solitary goal in their victory against Ankaragucu at the Eryaman Stadium.

While he may still aspire to play for a Premier League giant, for now, he remains committed to his current club.