New Paul Onuachu update as Trabzonspor dream dashed amid transfer fee dispute with Southampton

Paul Onuachu’s potential return to Trabzonspor has hit a major roadblock following the latest decision by the Turkish club, Soccernet.ng reports.

The club’s efforts to secure the Nigerian forward from Southampton have been unsuccessful, resulting in Trabzonspor halting their pursuit.

Trabzonspor have been keen on bringing Onuachu back after his impressive loan spell last season. The club paid a loan fee of €1.50 million for Onuachu, who quickly became a fan favourite by rediscovering his goal-scoring touch.

However, this summer’s negotiations with Southampton have proved challenging.

Southampton, newly promoted to the Premier League, are adamant about a permanent transfer and aim to recover a substantial part of the €18 million they paid Genk for Onuachu in January 2023.

Despite Trabzonspor’s strong interest in signing the 30-year-old striker permanently, their best offer of €7 million – a club record -fell short of Southampton’s expectations.

The Claret-Blues management stretched their financial limits, but the English club’s high valuation of Onuachu has made the deal unattainable.

Reports indicate that negotiations have reached a standstill, and Trabzonspor have decided not to make further offers.

The club has clearly stated that unless Southampton agrees to the terms already proposed, the transfer will not proceed.

If no transfer is agreed upon, Onuachu might have to prepare for another attempt to make his mark in the Premier League. His first six months at St Mary’s saw him struggle to find the net, but a return to England’s top flight could offer him a chance for redemption.