Trabzonspor target record deal for Super Eagles striker

By Ekemini Samuel

Posted on July 10, 2024

Turkish Super Lig side Trabzonspor are intensifying their effort to sign Super Eagles attacker Paul Onuachu, who is strongly linked with a return to Turkey.

According to reports, Trabzonspor have improved their offer to €6 million plus a 25% share of any future transfer fee for Onuachu, awaiting Southampton’s decision.

Onuachu joined Trabzonspor on a season-long loan from English Premier League side Southampton during the 2023 summer transfer window and made a strong impression, prompting the club to pursue him for another season.

Following the expiration of his loan deal, Trabzonspor have been actively negotiating with Southampton to secure the former KRC Genk forward on a permanent basis. According to Turkish media outlet 61saat, Trabzonspor’s offer is expected to be accepted by Southampton, with the Turkish club potentially setting a new club record with this acquisition.

Trabzonspor’s coach disclosed ongoing discussions with Onuachu, who is eager to return, emphasizing that the final decision rests with Southampton. “We spoke with Paul Onuachu 3-4 days ago; he also wishes to join us. At this moment, I cannot confirm if it will happen or not. Our president is working diligently on this matter. We need to be patient,” he stated, as quoted by Sabah Spor.

Trabzonspor have commenced preparations for the upcoming season, with attention on bolstering their squad, including recent signing Anthony Nwakaeme, another Nigerian compatriot. The potential signing of Onuachu would be a significant addition to their squad, and fans are eagerly awaiting the outcome of the negotiations.

Paul Onuachu has scored 17 goals in the just-concluded season (Carabao Cup, Cup, Super Lig). This season, he has also notched 4 assists, played 2,979 minutes, and started 22 games in the first line. Onuachu averages 0.77 goals per game in club competitions, an improvement from last season’s average of 0.52 goals per game, where he scored 17 goals in 33 club matches.

In the current season for Trabzonspor, Onuachu has taken a total of 64 shots, with 26 shots on goal, and has a passing accuracy of 61 percent.