Bursaspor president explains why the club invested heavily in the Nigerian forward.
Turkish club Bursaspor have disclosed the financial details of Kelechi Iheanacho’s contract, with club president Enes Çelik confirming that the Nigerian striker will earn a guaranteed €1.4 million per year following his arrival this summer.
The annual salary is estimated at approximately ₦2.2 billion, making the Super Eagles forward one of the highest-paid Nigerian footballers currently playing in the Turkish Super Lig.
Iheanacho recently completed a three-year move to Bursaspor, ending his time at Scottish giants Celtic despite reports suggesting the club had hoped to retain him after his performances during the 2025/26 season.
Although the former Leicester City and Sevilla striker encountered fitness setbacks during the campaign, he still produced several important displays that contributed to Celtic winning a domestic league and cup double.
His performances led to speculation over his future, especially after Celtic chose not to trigger the extension option in his contract. While discussions over a possible new agreement reportedly continued, Iheanacho eventually opted for a fresh challenge in Turkish football.
Speaking during Bursaspor’s pre-season training camp at Topuk Yaylası, Çelik revealed that negotiations with the Nigerian international lasted more than a month before an agreement was reached.
“We have been in contact with Kelechi Iheanacho for 40 days. It was a difficult process, but after watching him in training, especially his finishing, you can immediately see his quality,” Çelik said.
The Bursaspor president also acknowledged the efforts of club officials involved in completing the transfer, thanking members of the football department and administrative staff for helping finalize the deal.
Çelik explained that although the club invested significantly in the striker, the agreement was carefully structured to remain within Bursaspor’s financial plans.
“Iheanacho has a guaranteed salary of €1.4 million per year under his contract with us. We agreed on a three-year deal. There are players in this league earning €2.2 million who are not even half the player Iheanacho is. At the same time, we also have to protect the club’s financial structure.”
The 29-year-old will now look to carry his encouraging form into the 2026/27 Turkish Super Lig season, where Bursaspor will hope the Nigerian forward becomes a leading figure in their attack.