Turkish giants Galatasaray are reportedly eyeing a sensational swoop for Nigeria international Bright Osayi-Samuel, whose contract with rivals Fenerbahce expires at the end of the season.
According to Turkish football expert and Fotomaç editor-in-chief Zeki Uzundurukan, the Super Eagles defender would consider the controversial cross-city switch if his preferred move to the English Premier League fails to materialise.
“Galatasaray is in the game for Osayi. This transfer could be like the Batshuayi move last year. Because his contract is ending and the player wants a lot of money,” Uzundurukan said as per Gsgazete.
The football expert explained that Osayi-Samuel’s representatives have already made contact with Galatasaray.
“His agent is in contact with Galatasaray. He has clearly stated that they will consider Galatasaray if England doesn’t work,” he added.
Fenerbahce, meanwhile, are scrambling to retain their versatile defender, with recent reports indicating the Yellow Canaries are preparing an enticing offer to convince the 27-year-old to extend his stay.
According to Fanatik, the club is readying a significant improvement on his current £2.5m yearly salary, though the exact value of the proposed deal remains undisclosed.
Osayi-Samuel, who joined Fenerbahce from Queens Park Rangers in 2021 for a reported €500,000, has evolved from a winger into a reliable right-back during his time in Turkey.
The Nigeria international has been a key figure in José Mourinho’s team this season, featuring in both the UEFA Europa League and helping Fenerbahce remain firmly in the Super Lig title race, where they currently sit just three points behind leaders Galatasaray with seven matches remaining.
His impressive performances have attracted interest from several Premier League clubs, including Crystal Palace, Nottingham Forest and Wolverhampton Wanderers. Earlier this season, he was spotted at Selhurst Park watching Crystal Palace’s match against Arsenal, fuelling speculation about a potential move to England.
Uzundurukan believes Osayi-Samuel would be an instant success at Galatasaray, saying, “He knows the league. He has no transfer fee, just give him his salary and he will play. If he goes to Galatasaray, he will play directly.”
The defender’s decision will likely hinge on whether Premier League interest converts into concrete offers, with his representatives prioritising a return to England where Osayi-Samuel began his professional career.
For now, the Nigerian international remains focused on helping Fenerbahce challenge for the Turkish Super Lig title, having already tasted success with the club when they won the Turkish Cup in 2023.
