Super Eagles defender, Bright Osayi-Samuel, has been the subject of transfer rumours linking him with a move from Fenerbahce SKto Galatasaray, Soccernet.ng reports.
The Nigerian international joined Fenerbahçe in 2022 from Queens Park Rangers, with his contract set to expire in June 2025.
If the club opts not to sell him during the January transfer window and no new contract agreement is reached, he could leave on a free transfer next summer.
A return to England has been speculated in recent months, with Bournemouth, Brentford, Leeds United, and several other English clubs reportedly interested in signing him.
More recently, reports of a potential move to another Turkish side, Galatasaray, to link up with Victor Osimhen, have gained traction in the media.
However, several factors suggest this deal is highly improbable. Here are three reasons why the Nigerian defender is unlikely to swap Fenerbahce for their fierce rivals.
Get Our Sports News First – Join Our WhatsApp Channel Now!
1. Fierce Rivalry Between Fenerbahce and Galatasaray
Fenerbahce and Galatasaray share one of the fiercest rivalries in Turkish football, which makes player transfers between the two clubs extremely rare.
Selling Osayi-Samuel to Galatasaray would strain relations with Fenerbahce’s fan base and would also be seen as a betrayal by the club. It’s a move that Fenerbahce would likely avoid at all costs.
2. Osayi-Samuel’s Premier League Ambitions
Suppose Osayi-Samuel decides against renewing his contract with Fenerbahce. It is suggested that a return to the Premier League is his priority.
The Nigerian has, previously expressed a desire to play in England’s top flight again after his stint with Queens Park Rangers, which also makes Galatasaray an unlikely destination.
3. Galatasaray’s Defensive Depth
Galatasaray already have multiple options in the right-back position, which reduces their need for Osayi-Samuel. Kaan Ayhan and Elias Jelert are performing well in that role, and even centre-back Davinson Sanchez has been deployed there when needed. This defensive depth makes it less likely for the club to prioritise signing another player for the position.
While transfer rumours will continue to circulate, these reasons make it unlikely for Bright Osayi-Samuel to make the controversial switch from Fenerbahce to Galatasaray.