By John Moses
Nigerian international striker Paul Onuachu is reportedly on the verge of completing a permanent move to Turkish top-flight club Trabzonspor, following successful loan performances last season.
Negotiations between Trabzonspor and English Championship side Southampton are said to be at an advanced stage, with the Turkish outfit prepared to offer €5 million for the 31-year-old forward. This marks a significant reduction from the €18 million fee Southampton paid Belgian club KRC Genk to secure Onuachu’s services in January 2023.
Trabzonspor president Ertugal Dogan confirmed the ongoing discussions in a recent interview, stating: “Paul Onuachu is on our transfer agenda. We are in negotiations and are hopeful of reaching an agreement soon.”
Onuachu enjoyed a prolific loan spell with Trabzonspor in the 2024/25 season, scoring 15 goals in 21 league appearances, reigniting his form and value. His return to Turkey now looks imminent, especially after a disappointing stint in England where he scored only four goals and provided one assist in 25 matches for Southampton, who were relegated from the Premier League last season.
The proposed deal has been positively received by fans in Trabzon, who view Onuachu as a key figure in the club’s ambitions to challenge for the Turkish Super Lig title next season.
