Super Eagles forward Paul Onuachu has joined Southampton for pre-season training following an impressive loan spell with Turkish side Trabzonspor.
The striker's stint with the Saints got off to a disappointing start, with no goals scored in his 12 league outings as the club faced relegation to the Championship last two seasons.
The loan move to Trabzonspor proved beneficial for Onuachu, as he rediscovered his form and contributed to 21 goals in 25 matches, scoring 17 and providing four assists, despite a month-and-a-half injury layoff.
Martin discusses Paul Onuachu's role and squad opportunities
In the aftermath of Southampton’s impressive 7-1 friendly win over Eastleigh, manager Russel Martin provided insights into Onuachu’s situation and the opportunities available to both him and other squad members.
“Paul is back now with us after a bit of an extended break,” Martin said, confirming Onuachu's return to the team. “He had a brilliant season in Turkey, at a club that has a lot of affection for him now. So, we'll have to wait and see.
“They all have a chance while they're back here. They all have a chance. As the preseason pans out, then they assess their situation in terms of what it looks like.
“Whether they're going to be playing, if they're going to be involved or not, then it will be a discussion between us and then we'll wait and see.
“But everyone who's back here, genuinely, you have to have a chance. We haven't got the biggest squad at the moment either. We have a lot of young guys involved at the moment, so they have a chance to stake their claim.”
Onuachu to join Saudi club?
The burly forward has been linked with a transfer to Saudi Pro League club Al-Okhdood, according to Saudi Arabian outlet Al- Riyadiyah. However, Onuachu has expressed a strong desire to remain at Trabzonspor, provided the Turkish club can secure a permanent move for him.
Trabzonspor have been unable to meet Southampton's asking price for the striker. Reports indicate that Southampton have set a price of €12 million (£10.3 million) for the Nigeria international, a figure Trabzonspor are reportedly unable to afford due to constraints within their summer budget.
The report further indicates that representatives from the English club have engaged in discussions with Al-Okhdood officials regarding the terms of the striker's transfer.
Onuachu could join the Saints for their trip to Spain on Sunday, where they will participate in a week-long training camp.
During this period, they are scheduled to play friendly matches against French sides Bordeaux and Montpellier before returning to England to complete their pre-season schedule.
