‘Southampton Wanting’ – Saints’ Demand Holding Up Star’s Exit | OneFootball

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Southampton star Paul Onuachu is currently in Nigeria and waiting for permission from Saints to travel to Turkey to seal a move to Trabzonspor, but the Championship side’s upfront payment demand is holding things up.

The Onuachu transfer saga has dragged on for quite some time now, with the Turkish club trying their best to persuade the Saints to sell, but talks failing to produce a positive conclusion.

A gap in valuation has always persisted but now it is close to being bridged and there is little doubt the striker wants the move to happen.

Trabzonspor’s president admitted only earlier this week that efforts to sign Onuachu are continuing.

Talks have progressed well in the last few weeks and Onuachu is now close to permanently sealing his exit from England.

According to Nigerian journalist Buchi Laba, the only thing holding up the move is ‘Southampton wanting a heavy payment upfront’.

Onuachu is currently in Nigeria and waiting for a green signal from Southampton to travel to Turkey after having already agreed personal terms.

Onuachu’s signing will be greeted with joy by Fatih Tekke’s team, who benefited hugely from having him in their ranks for the 2023/24 season.

The Nigerian international finished the season with 21 goal contributions in 25 appearances as Trabzonspor finished third and thus secured a place in the Europa League qualifiers.

Onuachu, who joined Southampton in February 2023, has managed just 40 appearances for Saints, scoring just four goals.

The sale will also add to Southampton’s coffers as they aim to stay on the positive side of finances following relegation.

How quickly the deal might be sealed remains to be seen, but Trabzonspor will be working to deal with Southampton’s demand for a big upfront payment.