Transfer speculation surrounding Super Eagles star Paul Onuachu has been suggested as a possible reason behind the towering striker’s sluggish start to the new season at Trabzonspor, Footynaija.com reports.
Onuachu has failed to score in his first three competitive appearances of the campaign, despite playing 267 minutes across the Turkish Super Lig and Europa League.
The 32-year-old started Trabzonspor’s first two league matches against Kasımpasa and İstanbul Basaksehir, while he also featured for the full 90 minutes against Ferencvarosi in the Europa League.
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His slow start is a stark contrast to his outstanding 25/26 campaign, when he scored 22 league goals to share the Turkish top-flight Golden Boot with Eldor Shomurodov.
Onuachu has also remained at the center of transfer speculation throughout the summer, with clubs in Saudi Arabia, England and Turkey showing interest in the Nigeria international.
Al Ahli have reportedly been among his strongest suitors, while Fulham, Fenerbahce and Besiktas have also been linked with the striker.
Trabzonspor, however, have remained firm on their €30 million valuation and have already rejected multiple offers for their star forward. The continued uncertainty has now led to suggestions that the transfer situation could be affecting Onuachu’s performances.
Okan Citlak explains Onuachu’s slow start
Speaking on Haber61’s Saha Kenarı programme, Haber61 News Director Okan Cıtlak explained how transfer speculation can affect players, particularly when significant offers arrive.
“Players going through transfer periods experience some confusion. Especially when high transfer offers come in, confusion inevitably arises,” Citlak said.
“I think a similar scenario could happen with Onuachu. They might be waiting for the transfer window to close so that Onuachu can have peace of mind. These transfer periods create serious problems for players.
“If you are a sought-after player and the amount offered to you is more than what you are earning at your current club, of course, confusion arises. Onuachu received offers, but he is currently a Trabzonspor player. Perhaps this may have created some confusion. After all, these are professional players.”
Citlak’s comments come as Onuachu attempts to rediscover the form that made him one of the most prolific strikers in Turkish football last season. Trabzonspor coach Cihat Tekke has already backed the Nigerian to find his form, pointing out that he had only three pre-season training sessions before being thrown into competitive action.
With the transfer window approaching its final stages, the uncertainty surrounding Onuachu’s future could soon be resolved. Before then, Trabzonspor will be hoping their striker can put the speculations behind him and return to last season’s prolific form.
