Trabzonspor Reject €20 Million Bid for Paul Onuachu as Al Ahli Circle Nigerian Striker

Trabzonspor have rejected a bid approaching €20 million for Nigerian international Paul Onuachu, with club president Ertugrul Doğan going on record to confirm the offer was declined. The statement puts an early marker down in what is expected to be a prolonged transfer saga surrounding one of the Süper Lig’s standout performers from the 2023-24 campaign.

“An offer of close to €20 million came for Paul Onuachu; we did not accept,” Doğan told Turkish outlet Fanatik. “There is an offer for Paul Onuachu, but he loves the club and does not intend to leave.”

Saudi Arabian side Al Ahli are reportedly the club behind the approach, with sources suggesting the Pro League outfit are considering Onuachu as a potential replacement for Ivan Toney, who is said to be weighing a return to European football. Al Ahli’s interest has positioned the 30-year-old striker as one of the more prominent African names in the current transfer window.

Onuachu’s form during the 2023-24 season provided the foundation for this level of interest. The Nigerian forward scored 17 goals and registered four assists in just 25 appearances across all competitions for Trabzonspor, a return that earned him a share of the Süper Lig Golden Boot alongside Mauro Icardi and Edin Džeko. His spectacular overhead kick against Konyaspor was also recognised as the league’s Goal of the Season — individual honours that have elevated his profile considerably.

The striker’s performances throughout the season also earned him the Baller of the Week award, adding to a string of personal accolades that have underscored his importance to the Turkish club.

Despite the transfer speculation, both Trabzonspor’s leadership and Onuachu himself appear aligned on the immediate future. The president’s comments suggest the club would require a significantly higher offer to consider any deal, and the player’s reported affection for the club adds another layer of resistance to any potential move.

On the international stage, Onuachu is currently on duty with the Super Eagles and played a part in Nigeria’s 2-2 draw against Poland. The squad is now preparing to face Portugal in a friendly fixture, a match that has drawn considerable attention given the presence of Cristiano Ronaldo and additional context around the Super Eagles’ recent absence from the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

With the transfer window open and Al Ahli’s financial resources well documented — the Saudi Pro League clubs have been among the most active spenders in global football over the past two years — further developments surrounding Onuachu’s future are expected before the window closes. For now, however, Trabzonspor’s position is unambiguous.