Celtic rejected by familiar face as key target joins second tier club

Celtic have missed out on re-signing Kelechi Iheanacho to a team from the Turkish second tier.

The Nigerian striker scored nine goals for the Scottish champions last season despite starting only nine matches across 24 appearances in an injury-blighted campaign.

The former Manchester City and Leicester front man signed a one-year deal last summer following his release by Sevilla and was most often used from the bench as Celtic won a league and Scottish Cup double.

Kelechi Iheanacho has turned down the chance to return to Celtic. | Getty Images

The Parkhead side had the option to extend his deal for another season, but it was not activated before the deadline due to the managerial situation and Iheanacho became a free agent.

Martin O'Neill, who has since returned as manager, confirmed earlier this week that Celtic were working to bring the 29-year-old back to the club.

“We’re trying to come to some sort of agreement with Iheanacho," he said. “I’m very hopeful.”

However, Iheanacho has turned down the chance to return to Glasgow after signing a three-year contract with Bursaspor who are bidding for a third successive promotion as they climb back up the leagues following financial troubles.

Having already climbed out of the fourth division in 2024–25 and dominated the third division in 2025–26, the club is targeting an immediate return to the top flight and hope Iheanacho will help them win the title.