Leonardo Bonucci is set to sign for Turkish side Fenerbahce, ending his six-month spell with Union Berlin after failing to get regular game time. The Bundesliga club’s elimination from the Champions League could have also played a part, with the veteran keen on playing at the highest level.
The veteran defender will make the move until June 2024, after which he will evaluate his career and decide whether to continue playing at the top level. Bonucci is expected to be in Italy today to finalise the transfer and become a new signing for the Turkish club.
Leonardo Bonucci to sign for Fenerbahce as a free agent
Fenerbahce have pounced on the opportunity to sign one of the best defenders of his generation and boost their chances of reclaiming the Turkish Süper Lig title. Bonucci will bring a wealth of experience and leadership to the Istanbul side’s backline, especially considering his experience with Berlin. Though he may have lost a yard of pace, the Italian’s brilliant reading of the game, aerial ability and distribution skills remain.
The Turkish club are currently at the top of the league table on goal difference, 14 ahead of rivals Galatasaray, but level on points. It will be a close contest between the two this season, as both of them have spent considerably on recruiting new players.
Leonardo Bonucci’s arrival is yet another statement that shows Fenerbahce are eager to capitalise on the opportunity and reclaim the league title once again.
Leonardo Bonucci enjoyed a remarkably successful spell at Juventus between 2010 and 2023. The Italian center-back made over 300 appearances across all competitions, helping the Bianconeri to a dominant era in Serie A. Bonucci was a key figure in Juve’s defense during their run of 7 consecutive league titles from 2012 to 2018. His passing range, aerial prowess and leadership were crucial assets. Though he had a brief year at AC Milan in 2017/18, Bonucci returned to become a Juve legend. He won 9 league titles in total over his 12 seasons in Turin, cementing his status as one of their greatest defenders.
