Trabzonspor hold firm on Onuachu offer, desperate Saints blink first

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There is uncertainty surrounding the future of Super Eagles forward Paul Onuachu, as his parent club Southampton and Trabzonspor have yet to reach an agreement on the towering striker's future.

Onuachu joined the Turkish outfit on a season-long loan in September 2023 after failing to impress at Southampton, whom he had joined from Genk in February 2023.

Despite a seven-week absence due to a left arm fracture, the Nigeria international managed to contribute 15 goals and four assists in 24 games to help Trabzonspor to a third-place finish.

Following this remarkable feat, Trabzonspor are keen on keeping the 30-year-old. They are, however, unable to meet Southampton's demands.

Onuachu, in a recent interview, spoke of his desire to stay at Trabzonspor. “I will only play for Trabzonspor in Turkey. I am very happy there,” he said.

Southampton and Trabzonspor locked in Paul Onuachu negotiations

Initially, Southampton set an asking price of €15 million for Paul Onuachu, who joined them from Genk for the same amount just 18 months ago.

However, when Trabzonspor could not meet this valuation, Southampton reportedly reduced the price to €11 million and later to €9 million.

Despite the lowered price, Trabzonspor remain unwilling to meet Southampton's demands. The Turkish club has counter-proposed a payment of €5 million in two installments, plus €2 million in add-ons.

Paul Onuachu @ Icon Sport
Photo by Icon Sport

This offer represents a significant financial loss for Southampton. Nevertheless, the Saints' need to offload the Nigeria forward might push them to find common ground with Trabzonspor.

Adding another layer to the recent developments, Turkish journalist Hasan Tuncel reports that Trabzonspor have reached an agreement with Onuachu on personal terms, and are set to pay him €500,000 to €600,000 more than his current salary.

<!-- Author Start -->Godfred Budu<!-- Author End -->

Godfred Budu

Author

Godfred Budu is a Ghanaian sports journalist with over a decade of experience, offering a dynamic perspective on African football, particularly Nigerian football. A dedicated follower of Enyimba United, he has developed a deep understanding of the Nigerian football scene.