Nigeria international Bright Osayi-Samuel could be on his way out of Fenerbahce at the end of the season, with Turkish giants Galatasaray reportedly interested in the Super Eagles defender, Soccernet.ng reports.
According to Turkish football expert and Fotomaç editor-in-chief Zeki Uzundurukan, Osayi-Samuel would consider a controversial switch to Galatasaray should a move to the English Premier League not materialise.
“Galatasaray is in the game for Osayi,” Uzundurukan said as per Gsgazete. “This transfer could be like the Batshuayi move last year. Because his contract is ending and the player wants a lot of money.
“Would he do well at Galatasaray? He could. There is no foreigner limit anyway. He knows the league. He has no transfer fee, just give him his salary and he will play. Of course, the player also wants to get a chance and play, but Mourinho is not giving up on Mert Müldür there either. If he goes to Galatasaray, he will play directly. I don't think Jelert will cut Osayi.
“His agent is in contact with Galatasaray. He has clearly stated that they will consider Galatasaray if England doesn't work.”
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Osayi-Samuel, 27, joined Fenerbahce from English side Queens Park Rangers in 2021 for a reported €500,000. Since then, the former QPR Young Player of the Year has become a key figure at the club, evolving from a winger into a reliable right-back.
He has made 172 appearances for the Turkish side, scoring seven goals and contributing 15 assists. During his time in Istanbul, he has featured in both the UEFA Europa League and Champions League and was part of the team that won the Turkish Cup in 2023.
His form has also helped him break into the Nigerian national team, earning regular call-ups and playing a vital role in their run to the final of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, where the Super Eagles finished as runners-up.
Osayi-Samuel’s current deal with Fenerbahce runs out at the end of the season, and the club is eager to tie him down to a new contract. Discussions have taken place between both parties, but no agreement has yet been reached.
The defender has already expressed his affection for Fenerbahce and revealed his desire to win the league title with the club before making any decision on his future.
With Premier League clubs such as Crystal Palace, Nottingham Forest and Wolverhampton Wanderers reportedly showing interest, the coming weeks could be decisive for the Nigerian’s next move.
For now, Osayi-Samuel remains focused on the title race, and he played a part in Fenerbahce’s vital 3-1 win at Sivasspor on Sunday. The result keeps José Mourinho’s side firmly in contention for the Super Lig title, sitting just three points behind leaders Galatasaray with seven matches left to play.
