Fenerbahce are leading a fierce battle to sign highly-rated Nigerian striker Uchenna Ogundu, with six other clubs — including Hearts and Sturm Graz — locked in a race for the 19-year-old’s signature, Footynaija.com reports.
The teenage forward, who impressed last season at Turkish second-tier side Sanliurfaspor, has attracted significant attention following his six goals and two assists in 19 senior appearances since January.
Ogundu, who joined from Diamond Academy in Nigeria last August, has been praised for his pace, power, and versatility — standing 6ft 2in and capable of operating as both a central striker and wide forward.
Accorsing to Edinburgh News, Scottish side Hearts have already submitted an offer and remain hopeful of landing the striker, with new manager Derek McInnes eager to bolster his attacking options.
Scottish club Hearts have joined Fenerbahce & Samsunspor in the race for Nigeria’s Uchenna Ogundu.
— Football Money (@FollowD_Money) June 11, 2025
Ogundu, 19, played with Turkish 2nd division side Sanliurfaspor last season.
The teen wonder is also wanted by Hull City, Sturm Graz, Fortuna Sittard and Gornik Zabrze. pic.twitter.com/iXq9jnMZKn
However, they face stiff competition from Fenerbahce, who are considering signing Ogundu with a view to sending him out on loan, as well as Samsunspor, Sturm Graz, Fortuna Sittard, Gornik Zabrze, and Hull City.
Ogundu’s data metrics reportedly impressed Hearts’ recruitment analysts at Jamestown Analytics. He is viewed as a high-upside prospect, and his decision is expected to come down to which club offers him the clearest path to regular top-flight football.