Fenerbahce are determined to retain the services of Super Eagles defender Bright Osayi-Samuel, with the Turkish giants offering him a contract extension that would keep him in Istanbul beyond 2025, Soccernet.ng understands.
Currently, the 26-year-old’s contract is set to expire next year, and discussions are ongoing to secure his future at the club, according to reports in the Turkish media.
Osayi-Samuel joined Fenerbahce in 2020 from English side Queens Park Rangers, initially playing as a right winger.
However, he has since transitioned into a right-back role and become a crucial part of Fenerbahce’s setup.
His versatility and defensive nous have not gone unnoticed, both in Turkey and abroad, with Premier League clubs reportedly showing interest in the Nigerian international.
The situation is complicated by Osayi-Samuel’s personal ambitions.
The defender has long harboured dreams of returning to England, where he could see himself plying his trade in the Premier League after his contract with Fenerbahce ends.
This could make it challenging for the Turkish club to convince him to stay, especially with his growing profile attracting interest from top English clubs.
Nonetheless, Fenerbahce manager José Mourinho sees Osayi-Samuel as a vital part of his plans to reclaim the Super Lig title from arch-rivals Galatasaray.
Mourinho, who previously managed Chelsea and Manchester United, is keen to build a competitive squad around players like Osayi-Samuel. The fullback has already made five appearances this season, contributing one assist before picking up an injury.
Ahead of the crucial Istanbul derby, Osayi-Samuel’s fitness is a concern.
Although fellow teammate Alexander Djiku is expected to recover in time for the match, Osayi-Samuel is likely to miss out but could return for Fenerbahce’s Europa League clash against Union SG.
Despite his absence from Nigeria’s recent Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers, the Super Eagles managed a 3-0 victory over Benin and a goalless draw against Rwanda.
Osayi-Samuel will aim to return to full fitness in time for Nigeria’s upcoming AFCON double-header against Libya in October, where victories could seal the team’s place at the tournament in Morocco 2025.
This post was last modified on September 12, 2024 7:36 pm
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