Paul Onuachu’s protracted transfer saga shows no signs of abating as Southampton hold out for a fee that meets their valuation of the towering striker.
The Nigeria international joined the Saints in the summer of 2022/23 for €18 million from Belgian side KRC Genk but failed to make an impact, not scoring in the Premier League and making only 12 appearances as the team faced relegation.
The 30-year-old then moved on loan to Turkish side Trabzonspor, where his form improved significantly. He had a stellar campaign for the purple and blue, scoring 15 goals in 21 games and providing four assists.
Onuachu's impressive performances earned him a spot in the Super Eagles squad for the Africa Cup of Nations, where Nigeria finished second, losing the final 2-1 to hosts Ivory Coast.
Trabzonspor keen on Onuachu, Southampton fault valuation of Super Eagles star
Onuachu’s resurgence did not go unnoticed, as several clubs have expressed interest in him. Trabzonspor are particularly keen to bring him back, but there has been recent interest from Saudi Arabia as well.
Despite this, the Super Eagles strker has publicly stated he would only return to Turkey to play for Trabzonspor, a move he is eager to make.
However, negotiations have hit a stalemate as Trabzonspor and Southampton have yet to agree on a fee for the striker.
Southampton’s Director of Football, Rasmus Ankersen, has expressed frustration with the valuation offered by interested clubs. “My phone rings every day about [Paul] Onuachu, but if you want to buy a Ferrari, you cannot pay Fiat money,” he said.
Onuachu's time at Southampton may have been underwhelming, but his impressive loan spell at Trabzonspor has reignited interest in his talents.
As the transfer window progresses, it remains to be seen if a deal can be struck that satisfies all parties involved.
