Bright Osayi-Samuel, the dynamic Nigerian defender currently starring for Fenerbahçe, is at the center of a transfer saga that could see him make a sensational switch to arch-rivals Galatasaray—if his much-anticipated move to the Premier League fails to materialize.
Osayi-Samuel, 27, has been a key figure for Fenerbahçe since joining from Queens Park Rangers in 2021. This season, he has continued to impress under José Mourinho, featuring regularly in both the Turkish Süper Lig and European competitions. With his contract set to expire at the end of the season and renewal talks reportedly stalled, speculation about his next destination has intensified.
The Nigerian international has been heavily linked with a return to England, with Nottingham Forest, Crystal Palace, and Wolverhampton Wanderers all expressing interest in securing his services. Osayi-Samuel himself has remained diplomatic about his future, stating, “It’s actually hard to comment on this situation. Many people act like they know the subject! I play for Fenerbahçe, and I’m very happy about it… My only thought right now is the championship. We will meet with our president after the season is over and see what happens”.
However, in a twist that could send shockwaves through Turkish football, reports from Turkish media suggest that Galatasaray are closely monitoring the situation and have already made contact with Osayi-Samuel’s representatives. According to Turkish football expert Zeki Uzundurukan, “His agent is in contact with Galatasaray. He has clearly stated that they will consider Galatasaray if England doesn’t work”. This would echo last year’s high-profile Batshuayi transfer and would be a controversial move given the fierce rivalry between the two Istanbul giants.
Fenerbahçe, for their part, are reportedly preparing an improved contract offer to keep their versatile defender, who has evolved from a winger into a reliable right-back during his time in Turkey. The club is said to be ready to significantly increase his current £2.5 million yearly salary in a bid to convince him to stay.
Statistically, Osayi-Samuel has been a consistent performer this season. In the 2024/2025 Süper Lig campaign, he has made 19 league appearances, maintaining a pass completion rate of nearly 88% and contributing defensively with his pace and tactical awareness. While he has yet to register a goal, his reliability and versatility have made him indispensable for Mourinho’s title-chasing side.
A move to Galatasaray, who still have Victor Osimhen, would undoubtedly be controversial, but it highlights the pragmatic approach modern players and their agents often take. For Osayi-Samuel, the Premier League remains the dream, but if that door closes, joining another Turkish giant ensures he stays at the top level and in the European spotlight. For Fenerbahçe fans, losing a key player to their fiercest rivals would sting, but it’s a testament to Osayi-Samuel’s quality and the high regard in which he is held across the continent. Ultimately, his next move will depend on which club can best match his ambitions—both on the pitch and financially.
