Super Eagles and Southampton striker, Paul Onuachu, could be on the move in the coming transfer window after Besiktas enquired about the lanky striker, Soccernet.ng reports.
The 30-year-old forward joined the Saints from KRC Genk at the start of 2023 after he scored 85 goals and provided 10 assists in 134 games for the Belgian side. However, life at the Saint Mary’s Stadium has not worked out for Onuachu.
In his first six months at the club, he was subjected to just 405 minutes of game time, and couldn’t find the back of the net during that frame. The following summer, Onuachu joined Turkish Super Lig side, Trabzonspor, on a season-long loan.
During his time in Turkey, the Nigerian hit top form, scoring 17 goals and providing four assists in 25 games for Trabzonspor before returning to England, where he wasn’t the first-choice striker. Trabzonspor tried to sign him permanently but Southampton didn’t budge.
Football – 2024 / 2025 Premier League – Manchester City vs Southampton – Etihad Stadium – Saturday 26th October 2024 Paul Onuachu of Southampton wins a header in the City area against Josko Gvardiol and Mateo Kovacic, at the Etihad. PUBLICATIONxNOTxINxUK. [Photo Credit/ Imago].
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According to Turkish outlet, 61saat, Besiktas have entered the race to sign the 2.01m tall forward. One of the club’s presidential candidates, Serdal Adalı, has contacted Southampton officials in an attempt to tempt Onuachu with a return to Turkey.
As per the report, the striker is open to the move, as he’s already acclimatized himself to the nature of the Turkish League after his loan spell with Trabzonspor.
Adalı and his team plan to use Onuachu’s signature to send a strong message to Besiktas fans in a bid to announce his intentions while the election process continues. The 60-year-old has prepared everything needed for Onuachu’s transfer and is keen on sealing the deal so as to welcome the striker as a celebration in case of victory in the elections.