Ghana defender Kojo Oppong Peprah says positive conversations with Black Stars team-mate Alexander Djiku played an important part in his decision to join Fenerbahce.
The 22-year-old has completed a reported 12 million euro transfer from French club OGC Nice, signing a four-year contract with the Istanbul giants after spending the 2025-26 season in Ligue 1.
Peprah explained the influence Djiku had on his choice while speaking at his unveiling as a Fenerbahce player. Djiku, who previously represented the Turkish club, gave Peprah a favourable impression of life at the team.
“I spoke with Alexander Djiku. Hearing nice things from someone who played here had an impact on my transfer,” he said.
Djiku spent two seasons with Fenerbahce before leaving the club for Russian side Spartak Moscow. His experience in Istanbul provided Peprah with a direct source of information as the Ghana defender considered the next stage of his career.
Peprah joins Fenerbahce after a season in which he attracted attention with his performances for both OGC Nice and Ghana. His move to the Turkish Super League side follows his involvement at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where he played in two of Ghana’s matches.
One of those appearances came in Ghana’s goalless draw against England. Peprah made a crucial headed clearance during the match, helping his side preserve a point against England.
The transfer also extends Ghana’s long-standing association with Fenerbahce. Peprah follows a line of Ghanaian players who have represented the Istanbul club, including Stephen Appiah, Sam Johnson, Andre Ayew and Djiku.
His arrival gives Fenerbahce another Ghanaian connection while also marking a significant step in the young defender’s career. After completing the move from OGC Nice, Peprah will now continue his development in Turkey under the terms of his four-year agreement.
The reported 12 million euro fee makes the transfer a major commitment from Fenerbahce, while Peprah’s performances for club and country have helped establish the platform for his move. His contribution at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, particularly against England, came shortly before his switch to Istanbul.
For Peprah, however, the decision was shaped not only by his own progress but also by the recommendation of a player who already knew the club. Djiku’s positive assessment helped convince him that Fenerbahce was the right destination after his spell in Ligue 1.
