Paul Onuachu sets for Saudi Arabia’s move amidst interest from Trabzonspor

By Wale Mustapha

Nigeria striker Paul Onuachu is on the verge of joining the Saudi Pro League outfit Al-Okhdood, according to reports.

Onuachu had joined Southampton in January 2023 from Belgian Jupiler league side, KRC Genk in a deal worth €18 million.

The Super Eagles forward, however, struggled to perform, failing to score a single goal in 12 games.

The striker then spent last season out on loan at Turkish club Trabzonspor, where he managed to find his form back again, scoring 17 goals and assisting four in 25 games.

Depsite his return back to Saints training and a continued interest from Trabzonspor to extend his loan deal for another season, it has been revealed that the club is keen on permanently selling, with several other clubs in Turkey showing interest in his services.

However, it looks like Onuachu will be heading to Saudi Arabia instead after agreeing personal terms with Al-Okhdood, who are now working with Southampton over the deal structure, according to Arriyadiyah.

The 30 year old Onuachu has been playing in Europe since 2012, representing the likes of FC Midtjylland, Vejle BK, and KRC Genk, scoring 85 goals in 134 appearances for the latter and winning the Belgian Golden Shoe with 33 goals in 2021.

He was also named Belgian Professional Footballer of the Year for 2021 and claimed the Ebony Shoe in the same year. 

With Nigeria, he was part of the team that reached the 2023 AFCON final and also has a bronze medal from the 2019 version.