Besiktas have opened talks with Southampton for the potential transfer of Nigeria international Paul Onuachu, with club president Serdal Adalı receiving positive feedback in early negotiations, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.
According to Turkish platform, NTV Spor, Adalı met Southampton co-owner Rasmus Ankersen, who also oversees Turkish club Göztepe, during matches involving the İzmir side and held informal discussions over Onuachu.
The report claimed the talks “resulted in a positive response” and that Besiktas are optimistic about securing the striker’s signature.
Besiktas are believed to be preparing for life without Italian veteran Ciro Immobile, who is expected to part ways with the club at the end of the season. In their search for a replacement, they have turned their attention to Onuachu, a striker already familiar with the Süper Lig following a successful loan spell at Trabzonspor.
Two key circumstances are thought to be working in Besiktas’ favour in the negotiations. Onuachu’s age, now 30, and the fact that his contract with Southampton runs until 2026. These conditions are reportedly expected to bring down his transfer fee to a relatively modest range, possibly under €10m, according to NTV Spor.
The same report added that Onuachu is open to returning to Turkey, a factor that could further facilitate the deal. It stated that Adalı had used recent matches against Göztepe as an opportunity to informally discuss terms with Ankersen and that the response “was positive,” creating optimism within the Besiktas camp.
Another Turkish website, MYNET, corroborated the development, stating, “Besiktas have moved for Paul Onuachu, who became a fan favourite at Trabzonspor with his goals during his time there.”
The report added that “President Serdal Adalı will knock on Southampton’s door this week” to formalise negotiations.
Onuachu is believed to be open to a return to Turkish football. As NTV Spor put it, “Paul Onuachu is also reportedly keen on coming back to Turkey.”
The 2.01m tall striker scored four goals and provided one assist in 26 appearances this season for Southampton, amounting to 1065 minutes of action. Besiktas are also reportedly exploring a separate move for Norwegian midfielder Patrick Berg from Bodø/Glimt as part of a wider summer recruitment plan.
