Besiktas and Trabzonspor Lock Horns in Race to Sign Nigerian Striker Paul Onuachu

Turkish Super Lig heavyweights Besiktas have entered the race to sign Nigerian forward Paul Onuachu from English Premier League side Southampton, challenging Trabzonspor, who were previously leading the pursuit. The 30-year-old striker, who enjoyed a successful loan spell at Trabzonspor last season, is now at the center of a heated transfer battle between the two Turkish clubs.

Onuachu, who stands out for his towering presence and clinical finishing, made a significant impact during his time at Trabzonspor, scoring 17 goals in 25 appearances across all competitions. His performances last season had initially positioned Trabzonspor as the frontrunner to secure his services permanently. However, negotiations between the two clubs stalled over Southampton’s €15 million valuation of the player.

Trabzonspor president Ertuğrul Doğan recently confirmed the club’s reluctance to meet Southampton’s asking price. Speaking to Turkish outlet Tivibu Spor, Doğan stated, “Onuachu was a player who played for us on loan last season. His club insistently demands around €15 million. We offered €8 million with bonuses. Trabzonspor cannot give €15 million to a football player right now, especially for a 30-year-old. We will wait and see.”

Despite Trabzonspor’s hesitation, Besiktas has reportedly stepped in with concrete plans to meet Southampton’s valuation, adding a new twist to the transfer saga. The Istanbul-based club is keen to bolster its attacking options and sees Onuachu as a valuable addition to its squad.

Onuachu’s future at Southampton remains uncertain, even though he is under contract with the club until June 2026. After securing promotion back to the Premier League last season, Southampton is looking to offload several players who were loaned out during their Championship campaign. Onuachu, who recently scored four goals in a standout performance, has attracted interest from multiple clubs, including Fenerbahce and Goztepe, Southampton’s sister club. However, the primary competition for his signature now appears to be between Besiktas and Trabzonspor.

As the transfer window progresses, the battle for Onuachu’s services is expected to intensify, with both Turkish clubs vying to secure the prolific striker’s signature. Whether Besiktas’ willingness to meet Southampton’s demands will tip the scales in their favor remains to be seen. Football fans and analysts alike will be closely watching this developing transfer saga.