Paul Onuachu transfer rumors from Southampton to European clubs

Paul Onuachu, striker of Southampton, draws interest from Trabzonspor, Besiktas, and Stade Rennais, aiming to bolster their attack this winter.

Super Eagles forward Paul Onuachu has become a focal point in the transfer market, with Southampton reportedly open to offers for the towering 6’5″ striker. Although he has seen an increase in playing time recently and scored in the Saints' weekend loss to Nottingham Forest, his future at the struggling Premier League club remains uncertain.

Turkish giants Trabzonspor and Besiktas have already shown interest, with their approaches for Onuachu turned down earlier in the season. However, fresh reports from France suggest Ligue 1 side Stade Rennais are keen on securing the services of the Nigerian international during the winter transfer window.

The Ligue 1 club is searching for a replacement for Danish striker Henrik Meister, and Onuachu is viewed as a perfect fit for Rennes manager Jorge Sampaoli as the club seeks a physical goal-scoring presence in attack.

The 30-year-old joined Southampton in January 2023 from Belgian side KRC Genk, where he was a prolific scorer, netting an impressive 74 goals in 100 appearances. Despite these remarkable numbers, he has struggled to replicate that form in the Premier League. A loan spell to Trabzonspor last season revitalized his career as he scored 17 goals in 25 games, but Onuachu's return to Southampton has been slow. His weekend goal was his first of the season in Saints' colors.

With his physical attributes and previous goal-scoring record outside the Premier League, Onuachu could be an asset for Rennes. However, Southampton, currently battling relegation, may wait until later in the transfer window before deciding whether to cash in on the Nigerian forward.