Super Eagles forward Paul Onuachu could be sidelined for several months due to an injury he sustained during his club Trabzonspor's victory over Basaksehir on Wednesday evening.
A partial crush fracture resulted in the Nigerian's arm being encased in a plaster cast. The 29-year-old was a member of the Super Eagles team that placed second in the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations.
Onuachu, initially excluded from Jose Peseiro's AFCON squad, seized an opportunity to play in Ivory Coast by stepping in for the reportedly injured Umar Sadiq, making substitute appearances for the Super Eagles.
The 29-year-old has netted nine goals in 17 league matches and contributed three assists, while his team currently occupies the fourth position in the Super Lig standings.
On September 11, 2023, Onuachu commenced a season-long loan spell with Trabzonspor. He marked his debut for the club with a goal on September 17, 2023, during a 3-0 triumph over Besiktas.
How many months will Onuachu be sidelined?
The recovery time for a partial crush fracture can vary depending on the severity of the injury, the specific location of the fracture, and individual factors such as the player's overall health and fitness.
In some cases, footballers with a partial crush fracture may be sidelined for several weeks to a few months while they recover and undergo rehabilitation.
Reports suggest that discussions have commenced between the Saints and their Turkish counterparts regarding converting the player's loan into a permanent arrangement, potentially affecting his immediate future in light of the injury.
Should he face an extended period on the sidelines, this development might alter considerations regarding a potential transfer.
What is Southampton's asking price for Onuachu?
Reportedly, Southampton has set an asking price of €12 million (£10.3 million) for the striker, while Trabzonspor is prepared to offer €10 million (£8.6 million).
This move by Southampton aims to recover a significant portion of the £18 million fee they spent to acquire him a year ago.
The striker's stint with the Saints got off to a disappointing start, with no goals scored in his 11 league outings as the club faced relegation to the Championship last season.
Onuachu made the move to Southampton from Belgian club Genk in 2023, following a string of impressive goal-scoring performances.
He had netted 79 goals in 114 appearances for Genk prior to his transfer.
