Turkish Super Lig club Fenerbahce is determined to keep Super Eagles defender Bright Osayi-Samuel for the upcoming season, despite rumors of a potential return to England. The former Queens Park Rangers star, 26, has drawn interest from Wolverhampton Wanderers, Crystal Palace, and Leeds United.

According to Turkish sports media outlet Fanatik, Fenerbahce has begun contract extension talks with Osayi-Samuel, who has requested a salary increase. New Fenerbahce coach Jose Mourinho has expressed his desire to retain the Nigerian defender.

“Fenerbahce has started contract extension negotiations with Osayi-Samuel. He asked for a salary increase, and negotiations are ongoing,” reported Fanatik. “Jose Mourinho is also in favor of Samuel staying.”

Currently earning a net annual salary of €1.8 million, Osayi-Samuel is requesting a net annual salary of €2.5 million in the new contract. Although negotiations are ongoing, no agreement has been reached yet, but an agreement is expected in the coming days.

Signed from Queens Park Rangers in January 2021, Osayi-Samuel, a 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Silver medalist with Nigeria, is under contract with Fenerbahce until the end of the 2024/2025 season. The Istanbul giants are keen to keep one of their top assets.

Mourinho plans to include Osayi-Samuel in his squad for the 2024/2025 campaign, considering him for roles as a right-back or wing-back. Osayi-Samuel scored four goals and provided six assists in 39 appearances across all competitions for Fenerbahce last season and is expected to be a key player in Mourinho’s lineup.

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