Trabzonspor's Paul Onuachu celebrates after scoring during the Süper Lig match against Rizespor at Papara Park, Trabzon, Türkiye, March 14, 2026. (AA Photo)
Nigerian striker Paul Onuachu has gained one of world football’s biggest stars as a strike partner after Mohamed Salah completed his move to Turkish Super Lig side Trabzonspor, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.
The Egyptian icon has signed a two-year contract reportedly worth €17m per season after leaving Liverpool at the expiration of his deal, ending months of speculation over his future.
Trabzonspor officially unveiled Salah on Wednesday, with the 34-year-old arriving in Turkey ahead of a signing ceremony scheduled for Thursday evening at Papara Park.
In announcing the event, the club invited supporters to attend in their new-season shirts “to witness history and take the first step of this unforgettable journey together.”
Salah’s arrival is a major boost for Trabzonspor and Onuachu, who spearheaded the club’s attack last season after rebuilding his career following his departure from Southampton.
The Super Eagles forward finished as the joint top scorer in the Super Lig with 22 goals and added two assists in 30 appearances, establishing himself as one of the division’s most prolific forwards.
Trabzonspor fought off interest from Saudi Arabia and elsewhere to retain the Nigerian, with Onuachu recently reaffirming his commitment to the club despite approaches from other Turkish sides.
“There was interest from various sources. There were clubs from Türkiye that wanted me. There were very serious offers. However, my heart did not want to go anywhere other than Trabzon. The city, the fans and the atmosphere here give me a different feeling and courage,” Onuachu said.
The 32-year-old added that he had been determined to return permanently after his successful loan spell.
“From the moment I arrived, this city gave me the feeling that this is where I belong. I worked very hard to rejoin, but in the end, the clubs are the decision-makers.
“If I left Southampton, it would either be Trabzonspor or nowhere at all. I always maintained this desire. I had a different connection with this place.”
Salah’s arrival is expected to give Onuachu even greater service in the final third, with the Egyptian renowned for his creativity, movement and eye for goal after scoring 255 goals in 435 appearances during a trophy-laden nine-year spell at Liverpool.
Trabzonspor will hope the new attacking partnership can propel them to the Super Lig title after finishing third last season.
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