English Premier League strugglers Southampton have put contract negotiations with Nigerian forward Paul Onuachu on hold, Kick Off Nigeria has exclusively learned.
With their Premier League future hanging in the balance as they battle relegation, the Saints are reassessing their transfer strategy, awaiting clarity on whether they will remain in the top flight or drop to the EFL Championship.
Southampton’s Transfer Plans Affect Onuachu’s Future
Should Southampton suffer relegation, they are expected to offload several experienced players to raise funds for younger talent. As a result, the club has suspended new contract discussions with multiple players, including Onuachu.
The 30-year-old striker still has a year remaining on his contract, which runs until the end of the 2025/2026 season. Initially, Southampton had plans to extend his deal for an additional three years with improved terms and wages, but all talks are now at a standstill.
Southampton Communicates Decision to Onuachu’s Camp
A source close to CMG Sports, the agency representing Onuachu, revealed that Southampton has officially informed them of their decision to halt negotiations until the end of the season.
“We received communication on Friday stating that Paul (Onuachu)’s contract talks have been halted until the season ends. The club insists they won’t make any final decisions until they know which league they’ll be playing in next season. Of course, we are disappointed because we prefer clarity and stability for the player, but we also respect their position,”the source exclusively told Kick Off Nigeria.
Onuachu’s Career at Southampton and International Duty
The Nigerian joined Southampton in 2023 from Belgian side Genk on a three-year contract. Since his arrival, he has made 34 appearances, including 22 matches this season, scoring three goals and providing one assist. Last season, he was loaned out to Trabzonspor, where he scored 17 goals and registered four assists in 25 appearances for the Turkish club.
Related article: Paul Onuachu Shines in Turkey: What is the Nigerian’s Salary?
On the international stage, Onuachu has earned 22 caps for the Super Eagles since making his debut in 2019, scoring three goals. However, he was not included in Nigeria’s squad for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe on March 21 and 25, respectively.
What’s Next for Onuachu and Southampton?
With Southampton’s fate yet to be decided, Onuachu’s future remains uncertain. If the club retains its Premier League status, negotiations could resume, but relegation might see the striker move on to a new challenge elsewhere.
Stay tuned to Kick Off Nigeria for the latest updates on Paul Onuachu’s contract situation and Southampton’s survival battle in the English Premier League.
