Iheanacho Transfers to Bursaspor After Celtic Deal Fails

Kelechi Iheanacho, the Nigerian striker, has completed a free transfer to Turkish second-tier club Bursaspor after negotiations with Celtic for a contract extension collapsed. Celtic's current coach, Martin O'Neill, revealed he was taken aback by Iheanacho's decision to leave, as the club had hoped to retain him following an impressive loan spell last season, where he scored nine goals despite facing injury challenges.

Celtic's offer reportedly included a weekly wage of around £12,000, with potential bonuses bringing it to £17,000. However, Iheanacho's representatives sought a significantly improved deal, believed to be close to £50,000 per week.

O'Neill expressed disappointment over the situation, stating that he had anticipated Iheanacho's return for pre-season preparations. Bursaspor, a historically significant club in Turkey that last won the Turkish Super Lig title in 2010, swiftly concluded negotiations within 24 hours, focusing on securing an immediate return to the Turkish Super Lig.