Trabzonspor’s president, Ertuğrul Doğan, reportedly met with Southampton officials on Wednesday in a renewed effort to finalize the transfer of Nigerian striker Paul Onuachu.
The Turkish club has been working diligently to secure Onuachu’s services and believed a deal was previously in place, only to accuse Southampton of constantly shifting terms regarding bonuses and the final transfer fee.
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Onuachu, who is eager for the move to materialize, has reportedly grown increasingly frustrated by the protracted negotiations. Despite the obstacles, Trabzonspor remains determined.
According to Turkish outlet Gunebakis, Doğan directly engaged with Southampton representatives, pushing for an agreement around €6 million plus bonuses. Southampton, however, is holding out for a €9 million transfer fee.
Onuachu’s Future Uncertain Amid Contract Nears End
With Onuachu’s contract at Southampton set to expire next summer, this transfer window represents the Saints’ best opportunity to secure a substantial fee for the towering striker.
Onuachu is said to have his heart set on a return to Trabzonspor, where he enjoyed a successful loan spell, and is reportedly prepared to fly to Turkey for a medical with the Black Sea Storm as soon as an agreement is reached.
Last season, Onuachu found limited opportunities under former Southampton manager Russell Martin but saw more playing time following the arrival of interim boss Ivan Jurić.
As Southampton prepares for life back in the Championship under new manager Will Still, it appears Onuachu’s future does not lie in the second tier of English football. The primary question now revolves around the final transfer fee Southampton will command for his departure.
