Championship side Leeds United are the latest English club reportedly interested in signing Super Eagles versatile player Bright Osayi-Samuel when the transfer market opens.
Wolverhampton Wanderers and Crystal Palace are among the English clubs interested in signing the Nigerian international, who is currently playing for Fenerbahce in Turkey.
The 26-year-old was a member of Jose Peseiro‘s Super Eagles' team that placed second in the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast.
Osayi-Sameul has registered three goals and four assists in 26 competitive appearances this term for the Turkish Giants team as a right-back. He has been an asset both offensively and defensively.
Return to England on the cards for Osayi-Samuel?
After departing Blackpool, where he honed his skills as a youth academy graduate, Osayi-Samuel embarked on a promising journey in English football.
Making his professional debut on 7 March 2015, he showcased his talent in a 1–0 home defeat against Sheffield Wednesday.
Over his tenure with the team, he amassed a commendable record, scoring four goals in 64 league appearances and five goals in 79 total games.
In 2017, Osayi-Samuel made a significant move to Championship side Queens Park Rangers (QPR), signing a three-year deal. His debut for QPR came on 23 September 2017, as a substitute in a 0–0 home draw against Burton Albion.
Demonstrating his prowess, he notched his first goal for the club on 28 April 2018, contributing to a 3-1 victory over Birmingham City.
During his tenure with QPR, he tallied an impressive 11 goals in 103 league matches and a total of 13 goals in 115 appearances across all competitions.
However, in January 2021, Osayi-Samuel sought a new challenge and signed a pre-contract agreement to join Turkish side Fenerbahçe on a four-year deal starting in July 2021.
Now, with rumours circulating about a potential return to England, it seems that Osayi-Samuel may be considering a comeback to English football, where he first made his mark.
As speculation mounts, fans eagerly await to see if Osayi-Samuel's return to England is indeed on the cards.
Why Osayi-Samuel would be a shrewd transfer for Leeds
Osayi-Samuel presents an enticing prospect due to his versatility on the field. Not only can he effectively play on both flanks, but he also demonstrates proficiency in operating as a full-back or a winger.
His adaptability extends further, potentially making him a valuable asset as a wing-back, particularly given his notable goal-scoring contributions this campaign.
Currently favoring the right-back position, the Nigerian's skill set aligns well with Leeds United's needs, especially as a potential replacement for Connor Roberts.
Additionally, his ability to cover left-back adds to his utility, offering valuable depth in multiple positions. With loanee Jaidon Anthony's imminent return to AFC Bournemouth, Osayi-Samuel emerges as a viable wing option for Leeds United.
While his transition to top-flight football in the event of Leeds' promotion remains uncertain, Osayi-Samuel's prior experience in the English game, coupled with his success in the Turkish top flight, suggests a smooth adjustment could be expected.
At 26 years old, he brings a blend of domestic and international experience, making him an attractive long-term investment for the Whites.
