Much-criticized Super Eagles striker Paul Onuachu eyes Southampton exit

By Asuquo

Posted on June 21, 2024

Paul Onuachu faced intense criticism for his below-par performances with the Super Eagles, but his situation at the club level tells a different story as the forward is now on the radar of three Turkish clubs this summer.

During Nigeria’s ill-fated 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification matches in June, Paul Onuachu received the most criticism among the players, as the Super Eagles failed to secure wins against South Africa and Benin Republic.

Similar to his national team form, the towering striker has encountered challenges at English club Southampton and is now considering a move away this summer.

Recent reports indicate that Paul Onuachu is poised to depart from Southampton, with interest coming from several prominent European clubs, including Turkish giants Besiktas and Galatasaray.

Onuachu, who joined Southampton in a £18.6 million deal from Belgian side Genk on the deadline day of the January 2023 transfer window, struggled to find form in England.

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As a result, he spent the last season on loan with Trabzonspor in the Turkish top-flight league.

Despite Southampton’s immediate promotion back to the Premier League after defeating Leeds United 1-0 in the Championship playoffs final at Wembley, Onuachu, 30, is keen on a return to Trabzonspor. This preference comes even as Besiktas and Galatasaray show strong interest in securing the services of the towering forward.

A potential deal to bring Onuachu back to Trabzonspor is likely to be another loan agreement due to financial constraints. However, the forward appears determined to leave the Premier League. Sources indicate that Onuacho has instructed his agent to finalize his return to Trabzonspor, and he has not yet vacated his apartment in Turkey, signaling his intention to stay.

While no concrete deal has been confirmed, Onuachu’s focus remains on securing a move away from Southampton, marking the end of his brief and challenging stint in English football.