Emmanuel Emenike joins Al-Ain on loan

Fenerbahce striker Emmanuel Emenike has joined UAE Pro-League club Al-Ain on a season-long loan deal.

The 28-year-old has been at the Turkish outfit for the past two seasons, after spending three years at Spartak Moscow.

The Nigerian international had recently signed a contract extension with Fenerbahce, but he will now join Al-Ain to replace Asamoah Gyan, who is expected to complete a move to Chinese club Shanghai SIPG.

"Being a Fenerbahce player is something I will cherish for the rest of my career. Now, I have to move because I need a new challenge in my career and leaving now is the best decision taken," he told African Football.

"I am using this moment to express my gratitude to the club Fenerbahce and everybody who believes in me in one way or the other. Fenerbahce is a great club and I wish them all the best in the new season.

"I am looking forward to new challenge in UAE, as well as to get more playing time under my belt and score many goals. For every striker, it is important to score goals and I am already looking forward to that challenge."

Emenike scored five goals for Fenerbahce last season.