Onuachu: What Trabzonspor’s move for Bibout means for Super Eagles forward

Super Eagles striker Paul Onuachu faces fresh uncertainty over his future at Trabzonspor as interest continues to grow ahead of the summer transfer window, Afrik-Foot reports.

Onuachu enjoyed an impressive campaign with the Black Sea Storm last season, and it has not come as a surprise that he has begun attracting interest ahead of a possible departure this summer, with several clubs from Saudi Arabia reportedly leading the chase. 

The Nigerian forward rejoined Trabzonspor last summer on a permanent deal after previously impressing during a loan spell from Southampton following their relegation from the Premier League.

The 32-year-old scored 26 goals across all competitions, with 22 coming in the Super Lig, where he finished as joint-top scorer alongside Istanbul Basaksehir forward Eldor Shomurodov.

However, he could now be on the verge of an exit this summer as Trabzonspor weigh up a major decision on his long-term future.

Trabzonspor eye move for Aaron Bibout

As per reports from Haber 61, Trabzonspor are now in pole position to sign Cameroonian forward Aaron Bibout from Belgian side KRC Genk as a key reinforcement for next season.

The Turkish Cup winners had previously explored a move for Mallorca striker Vedat Muriqi, but the Kosovo international is now leaning towards a move to Fenerbahçe, forcing Trabzonspor to consider alternatives.

At 1.93 metres tall, Bibout shares a similar profile to Onuachu and also plays in a similar style. He could serve as a long-term option for the club at only 21 years of age, helping them in their ambitions next season as they look to end Galatasaray’s stronghold on the Turkish league title.

Genk are demanding a fee in the region of €10 million to €15 million before they can sanction a transfer this summer, with Trabzonspor not expected to have any difficulty matching their demands. 

Although the Turkish club are currently leading the race, they face strong competition from Premeir League heavyweights Chelsea and will need to act quickly to reach an agreement with Genk.

What this means for Onuachu

Trabzonspor have already rejected an offer worth up to €20 million for Onuachu earlier in the summer, but improved bids are expected to still come in for the Nigerian forward, particularly from Saudi Arabia.

Al Ahli are the most interested club as they eye a potential replacement for English forward Ivan Toney, who could depart this summer as he previously expressed a desire to return to European football.

At Onuachu’s age, any offer above the initial €20 million would represent a massive deal for Trabzonspor, while the Super Eagles forward would also be getting a very lucrative contract.

While the 32-year-old remains settled at the club and is not being forced out immediately, both parties are understood to be preparing for a possible departure this summer. This is why Trabzonspor are already moving early in the market for replacements in case he eventually leaves.

The Black Sea Storm have already missed out on other targets and are now under pressure to act quickly to avoid losing out again.

If their pursuit of Bibout is successful, Onuachu could be set for a new chapter in his career this summer with a potential move to the Middle East.