Southampton saw a number of players depart the club during last summer’s transfer window.
The Saints’ relegation from the Premier League prompted plenty of individuals to look for opportunities elsewhere.
One of those who was able to secure such a move, was Paul Onuachu. The striker had only joined the club from Genk on the final day of the 2023 January transfer window.
However, the summer saw him depart Southampton. That particular exit has taken the 29-year-old to Turkey, where he has joined Trabzonspor on loan until the end of the season.
Now it seems as though that deal, could soon be extended into a longer-term one.
Trabzonspor want permanent Paul Onuachu deal
Having completed his move to Turkey, Onuachu has impressed for Trabzonspor. The striker has made 16 appearances in all competitions for the club.
During that time, he has scored nine goals and provided three assists. That has helped Trabzonspor to 3rd place in the Turkish top-flight table.
As a result, Trabzonspor now look set to take action in an attempt to keep Onuachu at the club.
According to reports from Turkish outlet Star, Trabzonspor are set to hold talks with Southampton, about extending the striker’s stay with the club.
It is thought that Trabzonspor will initially look to agree a permanent deal with the Saints. If they are unable to do that, they will instead attempt to secure another loan move.
For his part, Onuachu is apparently keen to secure an extended deal with the Turkish side.
The striker’s contract with Southampton is set to run until the summer of 2026. That does give the Saints scope to negotiate any offers that do come in for the 29-year-old.
Southampton should sanction permanent Paul Onuachu move
It would seem to make sense for the Saints to agree a deal that allows Onuachu to leave permanently.
The striker never really seemed to settle at St Mary’s in all honesty. Indeed, in 12 appearances for Southampton he failed to score a single goal.
As a result, he is not exactly a player you would expect to make a major impact for Russell Martin‘s side if he does return to the club.
The fact he is apparently keen on the move to Trabzonspor only adds to that. If he does not want to be at Southampton, keeping him there may not help the mood around the place.
Agreeing to a permanent deal with Trabzonspor, would also allow the Saints to recoup some of the funds they spent on Onuachu.
They could then be reinvested in further strengthening the first-team squad at St Mary’s. With all that in mind, it would feel like a surprise if Southampton are unable to reach an agreement with Trabzonspor over the permanent sale of Onuachu.