Turkish giants Trabzonspor may reignite their pursuit of Nigerian striker Paul Onuachu following Southampton's drop from the Premier League. Onuachu, who enjoyed a productive loan spell at the club last season, was previously unattainable due to Southampton’s high valuation.
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The Super Eagles forward has just one year left on his contract with the English side, which could significantly reduce his transfer fee and make a permanent move to Turkey more feasible for Trabzonspor.
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The club faces a key decision between back Onuachu or signing Simon Banza, a loanee from Sporting Braga who has had a standout season in Turkey, scoring 20 goals and registering five assists. Braga had previously set a €20 million price tag on Banza, potentially making Onuachu a more economical option.
With both forwards expressing openness to remaining in the Turkish Super Lig, the coming weeks will be crucial in determining which striker Trabzonspor will commit to.
Editorial
Paul Onuachu’s situation is a clear example of how quickly football fortunes can turn. Just over a year ago, he was a record signing for Southampton, tasked with helping the club survive in the Premier League. Now, with their relegation confirmed and his own contract nearing its end, the towering striker finds himself on the brink of a new chapter.
Trabzonspor would be wise to consider the value Onuachu brings not just in terms of goals, but experience and adaptability. His previous stint in Turkey proved he could lead the line effectively in the Super Lig. While Simon Banza has had a prolific campaign, his €20 million valuation could deter a club looking for financial balance and attacking consistency.
This is more than a numbers game. Onuachu offers physical presence, international pedigree, and an understanding of the Turkish football landscape. With a reduced fee on the table and Southampton keen to offload wages post-relegation, this might be the best time for both parties to strike a deal.
For Nigerian football, a return to Trabzonspor could be the revival Onuachu needs an environment where he’s valued and able to showcase the qualities that made him a top scorer in Belgium not long ago. Sometimes, a second chance is the perfect one.
Did You Know?
Paul Onuachu was the top scorer in the Belgian Pro League during the 2020–21 season with 33 goals for Genk.
He stands at 2.01 metres (6 feet 7 inches), making him one of the tallest professional outfield players in Europe.
Onuachu made his Super Eagles debut in 2019, famously scoring after just 10 seconds against Egypt.
Trabzonspor won the Turkish Super Lig title in the 2021–22 season their first league title in 38 years.
Simon Banza began his career in France with RC Lens before moving to Portugal, where he plays for Sporting Braga.