Turkish Super Lig side Trabzonspor’s efforts to sign Nigerian defender Bruno Onyemaechi from Portuguese club Boavista have reportedly stalled, with Boavista holding firm on their €3 million valuation of the player, as per Portuguese media outlet A Bola.
Trabzonspor submitted an offer of €2.5 million, which was promptly rejected by Boavista. The Portuguese club is demanding a fee of €3 million to part ways with the 25-year-old, who has been instrumental for them this season.
Onyemaechi’s Stellar Form
Bruno Onyemaechi has been a standout performer for Boavista during the 2024/2025 Liga Portugal season, logging 1,476 minutes across 17 matches. The versatile left-back has scored two goals, showcasing both his attacking capabilities and defensive reliability. These attributes have made him an indispensable part of Boavista’s squad.
His market value, as estimated by Transfermarkt, stands at €3 million, aligning with Boavista’s asking price. Onyemaechi’s consistent performances have also attracted interest from other European clubs, further cementing his growing reputation.
Boavista’s Firm Stance
Boavista, whose next league fixture against Casa Pia looms, remains steadfast in their valuation of Onyemaechi. With the player under contract until the summer of 2026, the Portuguese side is under no pressure to sell and is determined to retain him unless their financial demands are met.
The club’s stance is influenced by their experience earlier in the season, when they sold right-back Pedro Malheiro to Trabzonspor. They are unwilling to let another key defender leave for anything less than their desired fee.
Trabzonspor’s Plans
Trabzonspor’s interest in Onyemaechi stems from their need to replace Turkish international full-back Evren Eren Elmali, who is set to join Galatasaray for €4 million. The club views Onyemaechi as an ideal replacement and was hopeful of completing the transfer swiftly to maintain squad depth and balance.
However, with Boavista refusing to budge on their demands, Trabzonspor may have to either increase their offer or explore alternative options in the transfer market.
Onyemaechi’s Career Highlights
Bruno Onyemaechi joined Boavista from Feirense in 2022, initially on loan, before making the move permanent for €1 million the following year. The Nigerian international has since cemented his place as one of the top defenders in Liga Portugal.
Related article: Onyemaechi Establishes Himself in Primeira: Salary and Prospects of the Defender
On the international stage, Onyemaechi has earned 11 caps for Nigeria since his debut in September 2023. He was a key member of the Super Eagles squad that reached the final of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
What’s Next?
As Trabzonspor considers their next steps, the ball is firmly in Boavista’s court. With the player’s market value and importance to the team, the Portuguese club is unlikely to compromise on their asking price.
For Trabzonspor, securing Onyemaechi could significantly bolster their defensive line, but whether they are willing to meet Boavista’s demands remains to be seen.
