Onuachu turns down lucrative three-times-his-wage proposal from Saudi club

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Nigeria striker Paul Onuachu has turned down a lucrative offer from Saudi Arabia that would have significantly increased his earnings, opting instead to remain at Trabzonspor despite growing transfer interest, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.

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The 31-year-old forward, who joined the Turkish Super Lig side from Southampton last summer, has enjoyed a prolific campaign, scoring 23 goals in 27 appearances to emerge as one of the most sought-after strikers in Europe.

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Following Nigeria’s third-place finish at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, Onuachu went on a remarkable 10-game scoring run before it was halted in last week’s fixture against Eyüpspor, further boosting his market value.

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According to reports from NTV Spor, the Nigerian international was presented with a substantial proposal from a Saudi Arabian club, which would have seen his wages increase multiple times over.

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“The Saudi club reportedly proposed a salary four times higher than his current earnings, but Onuachu rejected the offer,” the outlet reported.

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Despite the financial lure and mounting interest from abroad, Trabzonspor have taken a firm stance on the striker’s future, making it clear they are unwilling to sanction his departure.

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“Trabzonspor has decided not to sell Onuachu despite interest from Europe. With a contract running until 2028, plus a one-year option, Trabzonspor will retain the striker, effectively closing the transfer chapter on him,” NTV Spor added.

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Interest in the forward remains strong across multiple leagues, with Fotomac reporting that Juventus, Stade Rennais and Asian Champions League holders Al Ahli are monitoring his situation closely.

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The Turkish outlet noted that while Onuachu may not represent a long-term investment due to his age, his physical presence and consistent goal-scoring record make him an attractive option.

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“Onuachu is expected to have an active summer transfer window with Juventus, Stade Rennais and Al Ahli being the clubs to take action for the Nigerian striker,” Fotomac reported.

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“Although it is not considered a long-term investment due to his age of 31, he offers a safe haven for the clubs with his physical strength and scoring guarantee.”

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Onuachu has reported for Nigeria duty on Tuesday, joining the Super Eagles squad for the March international fixtures against Iran and Jordan in Antalya.

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