Chimezie Metu Nears Fenerbahce Move Pending Medical Clearance

Nigerian basketball star and D’Tigers forward, Chimezie Metu, is reportedly close to sealing a move to Fenerbahce Istanbul, with the deal contingent on a successful medical assessment.

The 28-year-old, who featured for FC Barcelona in both the Liga ACB and EuroLeague last season, is said to be finalizing a one-year contract with the Turkish basketball powerhouse.

According to sources cited by BasketNews, Metu who suffered an Achilles tendon rupture in March will undergo a thorough medical evaluation to determine the progress of his recovery before the agreement is officially signed.

The versatile big man, who plays both center and forward, is eyeing a return to competitive play around December 2025. Despite his injury setback, optimism remains high due to his strong athletic profile and encouraging rehabilitation trajectory.

During his rookie EuroLeague season with Barcelona, Metu made a notable impact, averaging 11.0 points, 4.8 rebounds, and a Performance Index Rating (PIR) of 11.8 in just 20 minutes per game. He shot an impressive 62.4% from two-point range and 36.4% from beyond the arc.

Highlights of his campaign include a 21-point performance against Anadolu Efes and consistent double-digit scoring from EuroLeague gameday 22 to 31, during which he averaged 13.4 points, 4.7 rebounds, and 1.3 assists per game on highly efficient shooting percentages.

Metu, who has appeared in 260 NBA regular-season games between 2018 and 2024, last suited up for Nigeria’s national team, D’Tigers, during the 2023 Pre-Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Lagos.

Fenerbahce is reportedly monitoring other potential signings, including Vasilije Micić and Tarik Biberović, but Metu remains a key target for the club’s upcoming campaign.

If cleared medically, the move would mark a significant step in Metu’s comeback journey and a valuable addition for Fenerbahce as they strengthen their roster ahead of the new season.