Nigerian striker Paul Onuachu is edging closer to a return to the Turkish Super Lig, with Trabzonspor keen to bring the towering forward back on a permanent basis following his successful loan spell last season, Footynaija.com reports.
The 2.01m (6ft 7in) frontman became an instant fan favourite at the Black Sea club, scoring 17 goals and providing four assists in 27 appearances across all competitions during the 2023/24 campaign.
Now, with new manager Fatih Tekke reportedly giving his approval, Trabzonspor have moved to negotiate a permanent transfer with Southampton, who currently hold the player’s contract until 2026.
Onuachu spent this season back at Southampton but has struggled to replicate his Turkish form, netting just four goals and registering a single assist in 25 matches across all competitions.
6ft7′ striker, Paul Onuachu, has registered 4 goals in his last 9 Premier League games for Southampton! pic.twitter.com/5j3SQJACg0
— EuroFoot (@eurofootcom) April 3, 2025
With the Saints confirmed to be heading back to the Championship and looking to balance their books, the door is open for the Nigerian forward to move on.
Reports from the UK suggest that Göztepe — another Turkish club under the same ownership group as Southampton — are also monitoring Onuachu’s situation. However, sources close to the player indicate he prefers a return to Trabzonspor, where he enjoyed one of the most prolific spells of his career.
Although Göztepe could make an offer if they secure European qualification, Onuachu is understood to be more enthusiastic about rejoining the Black Sea outfit.
The 29-year-old’s current market value is estimated at €8 million.
