Nigerian international Paul Onuachu has completed a permanent switch to Turkish Super Lig side Trabzonspor, ending a brief and underwhelming stint with English club Southampton.
The towering striker, who impressed during a loan spell at Trabzonspor in the 2023/24 season, returns on a full transfer reportedly worth €5.6 million ($6.6 million).
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The move represents a significant financial loss for Southampton, who shelled out €18 million to secure Onuachu from Belgian outfit KRC Genk in January 2023.
Despite his lofty price tag, the 31-year-old failed to make the expected impact in England, scoring just four goals and providing one assist in 25 Premier League matches for the Saints.
However, his fortunes turned around in Turkey, where he quickly found his rhythm. Onuachu netted 17 goals in 25 appearances during his loan stint at Trabzonspor last season, re-establishing himself as one of the most feared forwards in the league.
With his permanent return, Trabzonspor are looking to build on their third-place finish in the Super Lig last season. The club will be hoping that Onuachu’s physical presence and clinical finishing can lead them to a stronger title challenge under new head coach Fatih Tekke.
The Nigerian’s first test will come on Sunday, August 11, when Trabzonspor open their 2025/26 campaign against Kocaelispor. Expectations are high among the club’s faithful as they welcome back a player who became a fan favorite in just one season.
Onuachu’s transfer also reinforces the growing trend of Turkish clubs investing in proven African talent, and he will now aim to repay the club’s faith by delivering silverware and consistent performances.
