Kelechi Iheanacho transfer: How Bursaspor stole Nigerian striker from under Celtic’s noses

Turkish club Bursaspor have completed the signing of Super Eagles striker Kelechi Iheanacho, ending Celtic's hopes of keeping the former Manchester City forward, Soccernet.ng reports.

The 29-year-old has signed a three-year contract with the ambitious Turkish side after negotiations with Celtic collapsed in dramatic fashion.

The move comes as a surprise, especially after reports from Scotland suggested that the Scottish champions were optimistic of agreeing fresh terms with the Nigerian following his impressive campaign at Parkhead.

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How Bursaspor stole Kelechi Iheanacho from Celtic

According to Scottish outlet The Herald, Celtic had initially proposed a deal worth around £12,000 per week, potentially rising to £17,000 with bonuses.

However, negotiations broke down after Iheanacho's representatives later demanded wages in the region of £47,000 per week.

Within 48 hours of the latest talks collapsing, Bursaspor announced the signing of the 29-year-old striker.

Transfer insider Buchi Laba has now revealed that Bursaspor's swift approach played a major role in securing Iheanacho's signature.

More on Kelechi Iheanacho 🇳🇬 to Bursaspor:

– The deal was done in less than 24hours. 3years contract. They offered him a great great salary and project. Bursaspor Plan is to return back to the first division of Turkish Football next season.
– Discussion with Celtic was never… https://t.co/NBjotlgZ67

— Buchi Laba (@Buchi_Laba) July 17, 2026

According to the journalist, the Turkish club wrapped up negotiations in less than 24 hours, offering the Nigerian a lucrative salary package alongside a clear sporting project.

Bursaspor are targeting immediate promotion back to the Turkish Super Lig and view Iheanacho as one of the centrepieces of that ambition.

Unlike Celtic, whose discussions reportedly dragged on for several weeks, Bursaspor presented a concrete offer and quickly reached an agreement with the player's camp.

The Super Eagles striker also sought advice from several Nigerian players currently based in Turkey before making his final decision.

Those conversations convinced Iheanacho that Turkish football and lifestyle would suit him.

The move also offers the former Leicester City striker long-term security, with a three-year contract representing one of the final major deals of his career.

Celtic supporters have expressed frustration over the outcome, especially because the club possessed an option to extend Iheanacho's previous deal before reopening negotiations from scratch.

The Nigerian enjoyed a productive spell in Scotland last season, scoring nine goals and helping Celtic secure a domestic double. However, Bursaspor's decisiveness, financial package and ambitious project ultimately proved too attractive to ignore.

Iheanacho has travelled to Turkey, and the deal should be wrapped up this weekend after he completes medical tests and begins preparations for the new season as Bursaspor push for a return to the top flight.