Nigerian striker Kelechi Iheanacho is on the verge of joining Europa League debutants Samsunspor from Sevilla, with the transfer fee expected to break the club’s record.
According to Greek journalist George Tsarouchas, the 28-year-old has agreed personal terms on a contract worth up to €1.2m per year with the Turkish Super Lig side
The final hurdle remains Sevilla’s asking price of around €3.5m, which would surpass Samsunspor’s highest-ever transfer fee of €2.5m.
The club’s current record signing is Danish attacking midfielder Carlo Holse, who joined from Norwegian side Rosenborg in the 2023–24 season.
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Iheanacho spent the second half of last season on loan at Middlesbrough, but managed just one goal and two assists in 15 appearances, leading the Championship side to decline a permanent deal.
Kelechi Iheanacho of FC Middlesbrough warms up prior to the Sky Bet Championship match between Sheffield United FC and Middlesbrough FC at on February 12, 2025 in Sheffield, England. (Photo credit: Getty Images)
Besiktas have also been linked with the Super Eagles forward, but Samsunspor are now leading the race as they look to bolster their attack after finishing third in the Super Lig last season.
Samsunspor qualified for the UEFA Europa League qualifying rounds for the first time in their history after a 2–2 draw against Trabzonspor on 25 May 2025.
They will face either Panathinaikos or Shakhtar Donetsk in the play-off round for a place in the league phase of the 2025–26 competition.
Super Eagles players Chidera Ejuke and kelechi Iheanacho both joined Sevilla on free transfer last summer. Photo Credit: X
Sevilla’s decision to cash in on Iheanacho comes amid severe financial restrictions.
The Andalusian club have yet to register either Iheanacho or fellow Nigerian striker Jerome Akor for the 2025–26 La Liga season, with La Liga’s financial control rules slashing their wage budget to just €684,000 for all registered players and coaching staff.
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Among the few players registered so far is Super Eagles winger Chidera Ejuke, ahead of Sevilla’s opening fixture away to Athletic Bilbao on Sunday.
