Kelechi Iheanacho has joined Turkish second-tier club Bursaspor on a three-year contract after leaving Celtic. The Nigeria international departed the Scottish Premiership side following the expiry of the one-year extension clause in his contract, which Celtic chose not to renew. Iheanacho spent one season at the club, making a notable impact as a substitute despite missing significant time due to injuries. Celtic manager Martin O'Neill confirmed the club had hoped to retain the striker but failed to agree on terms.
O'Neill stated he believed a deal was in place but acknowledged Iheanacho's reported wage demand of £50,000 per week created a barrier. He noted the player performed well during his time at Celtic, particularly as an impact substitute, and started only one match under O'Neill's management — against Dundee United. The manager admitted he was unaware of the exact date Iheanacho finalized his move to Bursaspor. "He's gone to pastures new," O'Neill said. "That's fine. The option ran out and we would have taken him back on similar terms to before."
Iheanacho's transfer marks a shift to Turkish football, where Bursaspor will count on his experience in their push for promotion. No financial details beyond the wage request were disclosed, and the move is now complete. O'Neill accepted the outcome, reiterating that the decision ultimately rested with the player. "If he's gone to another club, that's his decision," he added.
Celtic walked away from re-signing a player they described as impactful despite just one start under O'Neill. The club's hesitation over a £50,000 weekly wage suggests a shift in transfer priorities, even for a proven difference-maker in short bursts. Iheanacho's move to Bursaspor underlines his continued appeal outside the Nigerian league. His presence in Turkey may offer more visibility than a reserve role at Celtic ever would.
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