Southampton have officially confirmed the permanent sale of Super Eagles striker Paul Onuachu to Turkish Süper Lig side Trabzonspor. The 31 year old, famed for scoring Nigeria’s fastest international goal, impressed during last season’s loan, netting 15 goals in just 21 appearances.
Onuachu arrived at Southampton in January 2023 but found opportunities limited, scoring only four goals in 40 appearances across two and a half years. In contrast, his loan spell at Trabzonspor in 2023–24 yielded a prolific season 15 goals in 21 Süper Lig matches plus a memorable hat-trick on his comeback from injury.
Off the pitch, negotiations were drawn out. Trabzonspor offered around €5.5–6 million, while Southampton initially demanded close to €8 million, adding various clauses to justify the valuation. A deal was eventually struck, allowing Onuachu to continue where he flourished.
Internationally, Onuachu has earned 24 caps for Nigeria since his debut in 2019. His lightning-fast goal against Egypt just ten seconds into his first match remains the fastest in national team history.
Editorial
Looking for the best betting experience in Nigeria this December 2025? The Bet9ja promotion code for December 2025 is YOHAIG. With this exclusive code, new users can claim a generous welcome bonus of up to ₦100,000 on their first deposit. For comprehensive details about the Bet9ja promotion code 2025 in Nigeria, visit https://www.bet9japromotioncode.com.ng/. Ready to elevate your betting experience? The YOHAIG Bet9ja Promotion Code 2025 unlocks exciting benefits. Start with just ₦100 as your minimum deposit! Begin your betting journey today by using the Bet9ja login signup and entering the Bet9ja bonus code when creating your account. Enjoy an impressive 170 per cent multiple boost bonus plus a free bet option for either Bet9ja sport or Bet9ja casino. To become a valued Bet9ja customer, simply complete the registration process here. Remember that terms and conditions apply when registering with Bet9ja to receive your bonus.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
We’ve followed Onuachu’s journey closely, and this move feels like destiny finding its course. Southampton never provided the stage he deserved, yet in Trabzonspor, he rediscovered his potency, proving his worth match after match.
We believe this departure serves both parties well. Southampton recuperate funds that were tied up in a player unable to click with their system. Onuachu, in turn, gains stability and confidence in a league and club that clearly cherish his talent.
We feel the drawn-out talks underscore the modern game’s financial chess. Each transfer carries hidden layers fees, clauses, bonuses but patience has granted Onuachu the clarity and setting to excel. convinced that by returning to Turkey, he’s reignited a flame that could light up his remaining international career.
His form at Trabzonspor might just be the springboard Nigeria needs heading into qualifying and tournament seasons.
We support this move wholeheartedly. In football, success is not just about moving it’s about arriving. And for Onuachu, this feels like homecoming.
Did You Know?
- Onuachu stands 2.01 m tall, making him one of the tallest players in Süper Lig history.
- He became the first Trabzonspor player since January 2020 to score a hat-trick, netting three against Gaziantep in April 2024.
- His 10‑second goal on debut in March 2019 is Nigeria’s fastest ever at international level.
- Onuachu was part of Nigeria’s squad that reached the AFCON final in 2023, finishing as runners-up.
- He ranks among Nigeria’s most prolific European-based players in 2023–24, alongside Osimhen, Boniface and Dessers.
