Super Eagles striker Paul Onuachu has completed a permanent move from English side Southampton to Turkish Super Lig club Trabzonspor, bringing his time at St Mary’s to an official end.
The transfer was confirmed on Friday via a statement on Southampton’s official website, marking the conclusion of the 31-year-old forward’s relatively brief and challenging spell in English football.
“Southampton Football Club can confirm that terms have been agreed with Trabzonspor for the transfer of striker Paul Onuachu,” the club announced. The statement further detailed that Onuachu, who had already spent the 2023/24 season on loan at the Turkish outfit, would now be joining them on a full-time basis.
Onuachu’s stint at Southampton lasted two and a half years, during which he found the back of the net only four times in 40 appearances. The towering striker, known for his aerial presence and clinical finishing during his time in Belgium, struggled to replicate that form in England. His limited impact coincided with a difficult period for Southampton, which culminated in the club’s relegation from the Premier League at the end of the 2022/23 season.
The Saints, who are preparing for life in the English Championship, acknowledged Onuachu’s contributions in their farewell message: “We thank Paul for his efforts during his time as a Saints player and wish him well.”
During his recent loan spell at Trabzonspor, Onuachu found renewed confidence and form, scoring 15 goals in just 21 appearances—an impressive return that reignited his value on the European scene and persuaded the Turkish side to secure his services permanently.
On the international stage, Onuachu has represented Nigeria with distinction since making his debut in 2019. He has earned 24 caps and scored three goals for the Super Eagles. Most recently, he was part of the Nigerian squad that reached the final of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Côte d’Ivoire, ultimately finishing as runners-up.
Onuachu’s move is seen as a fresh start for the striker, who now has the opportunity to continue his impressive form in a league where his physical style and goal-scoring instincts have already made an impact.
Southampton, meanwhile, are undergoing a rebuilding process after their relegation and the departure of several senior players. The club, alongside Ipswich Town and Leicester City, was relegated at the conclusion of the Premier League’s 2022/23 campaign. The Saints will now look to regroup and challenge for promotion back to the top flight.
What You Should Know
Paul Onuachu has permanently joined Trabzonspor after a productive loan spell, scoring 15 goals in 21 games. The Nigerian striker leaves Southampton after scoring just four goals in 40 appearances, as the club prepares for the upcoming Championship season following relegation.
