Bursaspor step up pursuit of Henry Onyekuru as Super Eagles forward eyes Turkey return

Turkish club Bursaspor have stepped up their pursuit of former Super Eagles forward Henry Onyekuru, with the free agent emerging as a potential attacking reinforcement ahead of the January transfer window.

According to Turkish outlet Fotomaç, Bursaspor are keen to secure the winger’s signature and have advanced talks over a possible deal that could offer him an opportunity to revive his career after a difficult spell at Gençlerbirliği.

Onyekuru has been without a club since leaving the Turkish Super Lig side at the end of last season, having struggled to make an impact following his arrival from Saudi Arabian club Al Fayha in 2025.

Onyekuru seeks fresh start after difficult spell

The Nigerian forward endured a frustrating spell at Gençlerbirliği, failing to register a goal contribution in 19 appearances and eventually falling out of favour.

His struggles culminated in his exclusion from the squad for the closing matches of the campaign. Reports also emerged of unpaid wages before both parties agreed to terminate his contract by mutual consent, despite a year remaining on his deal.

The separation left the former Everton and Galatasaray winger searching for a new club, with Bursaspor now offering a possible route back into competitive football.

The Turkish side are reportedly keen to strengthen their attacking options and view Onyekuru’s experience as an asset as they consider a move for the available forward.

His status as a free agent could also simplify negotiations, although any agreement would not immediately make him eligible to feature for the club.

Iheanacho connection could aid move

Onyekuru could become the latest Nigerian international to join Bursaspor, following the arrival of fellow Super Eagles forward Kelechi Iheanacho.

Iheanacho has made an impressive start to his spell at the Turkish club, scoring 11 goals and providing two assists in eight games this season.

His performances have included a six-match scoring streak, a run that underlined his importance to the team and marked a notable achievement in his career.

The former Leicester City and Celtic-linked striker recently explained why he chose Bursaspor, and his early success could add to the appeal of the club for other Nigerian players considering a move.

For Onyekuru, the prospect of joining a side where a fellow international is thriving could provide an encouraging environment in which to rebuild his confidence.

However, the winger would need to rediscover the attacking form that previously made him an important member of the Nigerian national team setup.

January registration delays possible debut

Despite Bursaspor’s reported interest and the prospect of an agreement before the winter transfer window, Onyekuru would not necessarily be available for immediate selection.

Under the reported registration arrangements, the forward would have to wait until January to become eligible to play, even if the parties reach an agreement earlier.

That delay would nevertheless give the 29-year-old time to settle into his new surroundings, regain match fitness and prepare for his return to competitive action.

Bursaspor are reportedly considering a contract that would run until the end of the season, with the possibility of an extension if Onyekuru impresses during the short-term arrangement.

Such an agreement would allow the club to assess his contribution before making a longer-term commitment.