Fenerbahce News: What Bright Osayi-Samuel must do to seal Istanbul return

Super Eagles defender Bright Osayi-Samuel could be on the verge of completing a sensational return to Fenerbahce, but one major obstacle still stands in his way, Afrik-Foot reports.

The 28-year-old only left the Yellow Canaries last summer, joining EFL Championship side Birmingham City on a free transfer after spending four-and-a-half successful years in Istanbul.

However, his spell in England has not gone entirely according to plan. Despite making 29 appearances last season, Osayi-Samuel failed to register a goal and managed just one assist as Birmingham struggled to meet expectations.

Now, Fotomac reports that the Nigerian international is pushing hard for a return to the Şükrü Saracoğlu Stadium following Ismail Kartal’s return to the Fenerbahçe dugout.

According to the Turkish outlet, Osayi-Samuel has already held talks with Kartal and expressed his desire to work under the experienced coach once again.

Why Fenerbahce still want Osayi-Samuel

Osayi-Samuel remains a highly respected figure among the Fenerbahce faithful.

During his previous spell, he developed into one of the Turkish Super Lig’s most reliable full-backs thanks to his pace, relentless work rate and ability to recover defensively.

Under Kartal, those qualities became particularly valuable, with Osayi-Samuel often used as an aggressive right-sided outlet capable of stretching opponents and recovering quickly during transitions.

The Nigerian’s familiarity with the club, the fans and Kartal’s tactical demands make him an attractive option despite Fenerbahce exploring other right-sided targets.

What Osayi-Samuel must do to complete the move

While the player is eager to return, Fenerbahce are unwilling to spend a transfer fee to bring him back.

A recent report from Fotomac claims the club hierarchy have made it clear that Osayi-Samuel must first resolve his situation with Birmingham City before any deal can progress.

The former Queens Park Rangers man still has two years remaining on his contract, which runs until 2028, meaning Birmingham are under no pressure to let him leave cheaply.

Fenerbahce president Aziz Yildirim has effectively sent a message that the player must sort out his departure and potentially negotiate compensation issues before the Turkish giants make their move.

As things stand, Osayi-Samuel’s immediate task is to secure an exit agreement with Birmingham.

Should he manage to terminate his contract or agree on favourable terms with the Championship side, the path back to Istanbul could open quickly.

Kartal reunion could revive Super Eagles defender

A return to Fenerbahce may also benefit Osayi-Samuel internationally. The defender produced some of the best football of his career under Kartal and regularly featured in the UEFA Europa League during his first spell in Turkey.

With the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers approaching, playing regularly in a familiar environment could significantly improve his chances of maintaining his place in Eric Chelle’s Super Eagles squad.

For now, though, everything depends on Birmingham. If Osayi-Samuel can negotiate his way out of England, a second chapter in Istanbul may soon become reality.