July 20, (THEWILL) – Southampton’s Nigerian forward Paul Onuachu is close to joining Saudi Pro League Club Al-Okhdood, according to recent reports. The 30-year-old striker, who signed for Southampton in January 2023, for £15.8 million, failed to score in his 12 appearances for the club.
Onuachu spent the previous season on loan at Turkish side Trabzonspor, where he rediscovered his form, netting 17 goals and providing four assists in 25 matches. Upon his return to Southampton, the club has shown interest in selling him permanently, with several Turkish teams expressing interest.
However, it appears Onuachu will be heading to Saudi Arabia instead. Reports suggest he has agreed to personal terms with Al-Okhdood, who are now negotiating the deal structure with Southampton.
The Nigerian international has been playing in Europe since 2012, representing clubs such as FC Midtjylland, Vejle BK, and KRC Genk. His time at Genk was particularly successful, scoring 85 goals in 134 appearances and winning the Belgian Golden Shoe in 2021 with 33 goals.
Onuachu’s accolades include being named Belgian Professional Footballer of the Year and winning the Ebony Shoe in 2021. He was also part of the Nigerian team that reached the 2023, Africa Cup of Nations final and earned a bronze medal in the 2019 tournament.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
