Turkish club Göztepe target Onuachu

Following a turbulent period at Southampton, Nigeria international, Paul Onuachu, may be heading to Turkey with Turkish club Göztepe targeting the striker as part of their ambitious push to qualify for European competition next season.

Despite a poor run of form in the Süper Lig, the İzmir-based side still has a path into the UEFA Europa League, provided they win the Turkish Cup. They have already eliminated Beşiktaş in the quarter-finals and are one step away from a potential final.

Onuachu, who had a productive loan spell at Trabzonspor last season, is among the names being considered for Göztepe’s European project. His potential return to Turkey comes as Southampton prepares for a summer clear-out following their confirmed relegation.

“Having achieved significant success in its first season in the Super League with a very low budget, Göztepe is planning to bring many star players from the relegated English team Southampton to the red-yellow team if they qualify for the European Cups next season,” Yeniasir, a Turkish website wrote.

“Former Göztepe chairman Mehmet Sepil, who is still on the board of directors, shared the idea of bringing Southampton star players to Göztepe next season with Ankersen. The Danish businessman also responded positively to the suggestion.

“In case of winning the Turkish Cup, Göz-Göz, which will participate in the Europa League next season, is considering bringing in some names from Southampton such as Paul Onuachu, Kamaldeen Sulemana, Mateus Fernandes, Welington and Armel Bella-Kotchap. In particular, Onuachu, Fernandes and Sulemana, who previously played on loan in Trabzon in Türkiye, have been prominent names.”

The 30-year-old striker has struggled to make an impact at Southampton since his €18m move from Genk in January 2023. In 36 appearances across all competitions, he has scored just 4 goals and provided a single assist, failing to replicate the prolific form that once made him one of the most feared forwards in Belgium.

Despite his struggles in England, Onuachu remains an attractive option for clubs outside the Premier League, particularly in leagues where his 6’6” frame and aerial ability could once again become decisive weapons in the box.