French and English clubs circle as Osayi-Samuel nears Fenerbahçe exit

Published on by Toyosi Afolayan

Super Eagles and Fenerbahçe defender Bright Osayi-Samuel is attracting interest from Sky Bet Championship side Norwich City and Ligue 1 club RC Lens, as contract renewal talks with the Turkish giants hit a standstill.

Bright Osayi-Samuel has become a regular fixture for Fenerbahçe since joining the club from Queens Park Rangers (QPR) in 2021. Initially playing as a winger, the 26-year-old Nigerian successfully transitioned to a right-back role and has thrived under multiple managers, including the newly appointed José Mourinho. However, his future in Istanbul looks uncertain, as contract negotiations with Fenerbahçe have stalled.

Osayi-Samuel’s current deal is set to expire in June 2025, but with talks hitting an impasse due to salary demands, the Nigerian international is being courted by clubs in England and France.

French and English clubs circle as Osayi-Samuel nears Fenerbahçe exit
Photo by Icon Sport

Interest from Norwich and Lens

Reports from Turkish media outlet Fanatik reveal that Fenerbahçe are unwilling to meet Osayi-Samuel's request for a pay rise in a new four-year contract, with the club offering no more than €2 million annually.

Amid the uncertainty, Norwich City and RC Lens have emerged as potential destinations for Osayi-Samuel next summer per reports from Haber Ekspres. Norwich, who are fighting for promotion back to the Premier League, could have an edge if they secure top-flight football next season. 

Meanwhile, RC Lens, a club that has impressed in Ligue 1 and could even qualify for the Champions League, appears a more attractive option should Norwich remain in the Championship.

Though both clubs are keeping tabs on the situation, other suitors may also enter the race for Osayi-Samuel’s signature as his contract nears its expiration.

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Toyosi Afolayan

Toyosi Afolayan is a sports journalist who breathes life into the games we love. He loves to combine insightful analysis with historical background, creating a richer understanding of sports. Afolayan's expertise ranges from captivating narratives to live broadcasts, captivating audiences across platforms like Ojbsport, AllNigeriaSoccer, TVC Entertainment, Bounce Networks, Kwara TV, ICIR, EaglesTracker, and NFF TV. His background in History and International Studies adds depth, revealing the connections between sports, politics, and national identity.