Trabzonspor President Ertuğrul Doğan has confirmed that the Turkish club cannot afford to pay €15 million N27.4 billion for Super Eagles striker Paul Onuachu, despite their interest in signing him from Southampton. Onuachu, who impressed during a loan stint with Trabzonspor last season, was the club’s top scorer and played a key role in helping them finish third in the Turkish Super Lig.
Despite the challenges in negotiations, Trabzonspor remains hopeful of securing a deal before the Turkish transfer window closes. The club is currently struggling without Onuachu, having failed to score in their opening league matches and missing out on qualification for European competitions.
Editorial
Paul Onuachu’s transfer saga highlights the complexities of football negotiations, especially when it involves high transfer fees and ageing players. Trabzonspor’s interest in Onuachu is understandable, given his strong performance during his loan spell, but the financial constraints they face reflect a broader issue many clubs deal with balancing the need for talent with fiscal responsibility.
While Southampton is keen to offload Onuachu, Trabzonspor has only been able to offer €8 million plus bonuses, which was rejected by the English club. Trabzonspor is unwilling to increase their bid, citing Onuachu’s age as a factor.
Onuachu’s potential return to Trabzonspor would undoubtedly boost the team’s chances this season, especially given their poor start. However, the outcome of these negotiations will depend on whether Southampton is willing to lower their asking price or if another club steps in with a higher offer.
Did You Know?
- Paul Onuachu was Trabzonspor’s top scorer last season during his loan spell, helping the club to a third place finish in the Turkish Super Lig.
- Trabzonspor has offered €8 million plus bonuses for Onuachu, but Southampton is demanding €15 million for the striker.
- Trabzonspor’s struggles without Onuachu have been evident, as they failed to score in their opening league matches and missed out on European competition qualification.
- Onuachu’s age 30 has been a key factor in Trabzonspor’s reluctance to increase their bid for the Nigerian striker.
- The Turkish transfer window is closing soon, leaving little time for both clubs to reach an agreement on Onuachu’s future.