Southampton star Paul Onuachu is eager for manager Russell Martin to make a swift decision regarding his potential permanent departure from St Mary’s, with a move to Trabzonspor in his sights, sources from GIVEMESPORT reveal.

Following their victory over Leeds United in the Championship play-off final last month, which is projected to bring in around £140 million in revenue over the next three seasons, Southampton has been intensifying their preparations for a return to the Premier League.

Manager Russell Martin has already bolstered the squad by securing Adam Lallana on a one-year contract after his departure from Brighton & Hove Albion. However, Martin and director of football Rasmus Ankersen are also contemplating potential departures before the August 30 transfer deadline.

Onuachu Eager for Swift Decision on Future

The striker is keen to quickly secure a return to Trabzonspor

Onuachu is pressing Southampton for a decision on whether they will sell him by the start of July, as he has expressed a strong desire to return to Trabzonspor following a successful loan spell with the Turkish club during the 2023/24 season. The striker scored 17 goals and provided four assists in 25 appearances for Trabzonspor, and he is eager to continue his prolific form in the Super Lig.

Despite the potential shortage of center-forward options with Che Adams nearing the end of his contract, GMS sources indicate that Martin is inclined to allow Onuachu to seek a new challenge in the upcoming weeks.

Paul Onuachu’s 2023/24 Season Stats vs. Che Adams

Paul Onuachu

• Shots: 3.61
• Fouls drawn: 3.31
• Shots on target: 1.42
• Goals: 0.89
• Assists: 0.24

Che Adams

• Shots: 3.15
• Fouls drawn: 1.38
• Shots on target: 1.22
• Goals: 0.63
• Assists: 0.16

Statistics correct as of 24/06/2024

The 6 ft 7 Nigerian international, praised as “insanely good at football” by former Genk teammate Rasmus Carstensen, is currently on holiday and hopes for a swift resolution before the squad returns to Staplewood for pre-season. GMS sources previously disclosed that Onuachu is not a central part of Martin’s plans, despite his strong performance for Trabzonspor, suggesting he may have played his last game for Southampton.

Martin Open to Cut-Price Sale of Onuachu

Southampton willing to accept significant loss on the striker

GMS sources have revealed that Southampton is prepared to sell Onuachu at a significant loss, considering offers of half the £18 million they paid Genk two-and-a-half years ago. The Saints have recognized the need to cut their losses on the 30-year-old, who has failed to score in 12 appearances for the club. Selling him would also help boost their recruitment budget ahead of the season opener against Newcastle United.

However, Southampton prefers a permanent transfer rather than another loan, as Trabzonspor would prefer, leading to ongoing uncertainty about Onuachu’s destination for the next season.