Trabzonspor rekindle interest in Onuachu, eye January move for Nigerian striker

Turkish Super Lig side, Trabzonspor, are set to rekindle their interest in Super Eagles and Southampton striker, Paul Onuachu, Soccernet.ng reports.

The 30-year-old forward spent last season with Trabzonspor on loan from Southampton, after failing to find the back of the net for the Saints since joining from Club Brugge in the winter transfer window of 2023.

During his time with the Turkish club, he scored 17 goals and provided four assists in 25 League appearances, before picking up an injury towards the end of last season.

Trabzonspor tried to sign the 2.01m tall striker permanently this summer, but Southampton were holding out for a higher fee than what the Turkish side submitted, which saw the deal fall through. The Nigerian stayed with the Premier League side and has made just one appearance for Martin Russell’s side since then.

However, a move to Turkey could be on the cards for the former Club Brugge man when the transfer window opens in January. As per Taka Gazette, Southampton have contacted Trabzonspor with regards to possibly doing a deal during the January window.The Turkish media outlet report that Abdullah Avci’s side are still keen on Onuachu’s services if the price is right.

Southampton were looking for a fee in the region of €9m during the latter stages of the previous negotiations between both parties, but Trabzonspor were unwilling to pay that much.

It’s likely the Turkish club will be in the market for a centre forward during the next transfer window due to their woes in front of goal so far this season. In seven league games, Trabzonspor have just one win, scoring seven goals alongside.