Paul Onuachu: What Franculino’s arrival at Trabzonspor means for Super Eagles striker

Super Eagles striker Paul Onuachu has been a regular subject of transfer speculation since the end of last season, Afrik-Foot reports.

​The 32-year-old finished as the Süper Lig’s top scorer last term, tallying 22 goals and two assists in 30 league matches, and 26 goals in 36 appearances across all competitions.

​The Nigerian marksman was linked with several clubs across Europe and Saudi Arabia. However, with the transfer window now shut across most European leagues, none managed to secure his signature.

​A move to Saudi Arabia remains possible, as their transfer window is still open. Compounding the speculation, the striker has gone scoreless in ten consecutive matches for the Black Sea Storm.

Trabzonspor also broke their transfer record yesterday by signing Guinea-Bissau forward Franculino Djú from FC Midtjylland for €17 million, fueling further rumors that Onuachu’s time at Papara Park could be drawing to a close.

🚨🩵🤎 Franculino to Trabzonspor, here we go! Verbal agreement in place and medical booked for the new striker.

All set to be signed in the next 24 hours.

Franculino rejected several proposals and he’s now set for Trabzon move.
Update powered by @sportpusula. pic.twitter.com/Z0oNPcERS3

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) September 2, 2026

​Why Paul Onuachu May Remain at Trabzonspor

​Franculino Djú’s arrival immediately sparked talk of Onuachu’s exit, but Trabzonspor president Ertuğrul Doğan firmly dismissed the rumors while unveiling the new signing.

​”There is no talk of Onuachu leaving. He is the league’s top scorer, so that’s entirely out of the question,” Doğan said.

​While the club’s stance appears resolute, circumstances could shift quickly. Following the departure of manager Fatih Tekke, the incoming coach’s tactical preferences could relegate the 32-year-old to the bench, a role he is unlikely to accept if lucrative alternatives come up.

With transfer windows across parts of the Middle East still open, several clubs have the financial muscle to test Trabzonspor’s resolve.

​Despite Doğan’s reassurances, Onuachu’s future could easily take another turn before the remaining windows close.