Paul Onuachu nearing permanent move to Trabzonspor as transfer deadline looms
Super Eagles and Southampton striker, Paul Ebere Onuachu, is on the verge of sealing a move to Turkish club Trabzonspor before the transfer window closes in two days.
The 30-year-old Nigerian forward impressed during the 2023/2024 season while on loan with Trabzonspor, netting 15 goals and providing four assists in 21 league appearances.
His strong performances prompted the Turkish side to pursue a permanent transfer, offering €7 million to Southampton in an attempt to retain his services.
However, the Saints initially rejected the bid, holding out for a minimum of €10 million. Trabzonspor, considering the asking price too steep, briefly shifted their focus to other options, including Dutch striker Wout Weghorst, who eventually joined Ajax.
READ MORE:Â Nigerian home-based Olympians urge Sports Minister to honour $1,000 training grant promise
Despite this setback, Trabzonspor has reignited their interest in Onuachu. According to Sport Witness, negotiations between the two clubs have resumed, with the deal now in its advanced stages. Southampton, faced with the possibility of Onuachu being surplus to requirements at St Mary’s, may be willing to accept Trabzonspor’s revised offer of €7 million, plus additional performance-based add-ons.
Onuachu is reportedly eager to make his move to Turkey permanent, with Trabzonspor’s president confirming that discussions are ongoing. The Turkish club is confident of reaching an agreement with Southampton before the English transfer window shuts, especially given that the Turkish window remains open for over two weeks longer.
If finalized, Onuachu’s transfer would mark the end of his time with Southampton, where he has struggled to find his footing since joining from KRC Genk.
His potential move to Trabzonspor would provide him with an opportunity to continue his prolific goal-scoring form in a league where he has already made a significant impact.