Trabzonspor President Ertuğrul Doğan has confirmed that the club remains determined to sign Southampton’s Nigerian striker Paul Onuachu before the summer transfer window closes.
Despite ongoing negotiations throughout the summer, a final agreement between the Turkish club and the Premier League side has yet to be reached.
The Trabzon-based club have reportedly agreed on personal terms with Onuachu, but Southampton’s valuation of the Nigerian international remains a major hurdle. The Saints, who have excluded Onuachu from their plans this season, are holding firm on their financial demands, reportedly seeking 15 million euros for the lanky forward.
Earlier in the window, Trabzonspor explored the possibility of signing another Nigerian forward, Tolu Arokodare from KRC Genk, but financial constraints prevented a deal. The club eventually secured Romanian striker Denis Drăguș, who has only managed to score once this season.
However, their focus has now shifted back to Onuachu to further strengthen their attack.
Close to €10 million chasm between Trabzonspor and dream signing Paul Onuachu
Speaking to A Para via NTVSpor, Doğan expressed confidence that a deal could still be struck before the transfer deadline.
“Onuachu is our coach’s top priority. We’re in talks with him, and he’s in discussions with his club as well. We’ve made a serious offer,” Doğan revealed.
“We’ve offered 6 million euros plus bonuses, but Southampton are holding out for 15 million euros. With the transfer window closing soon, I’m optimistic that we’ll reach a positive outcome, either through a loan or a purchase. Our negotiations are ongoing.”
Paul Onuachu’s situation at Southampton remains uncertain, as he was left out of the squad for their Premier League matches against Newcastle United and Nottingham Forest.
Moreover, he has not been included in Nigeria’s squad for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
