Southampton manager Russel Martin has debunked rumours of Paul Onuachu submitting a transfer request amid heavy links to Trabzonspor, Soccernet.ng reports.
The Super Eagles forward returned to St Mary's Stadium following an impressive season-long loan spell with Trabzonspor, leading to speculation about a permanent return to Turkey.
Amid the ongoing transfer saga between Southampton and the Turkish club, reports emerged suggesting that Onuachu had formally requested a transfer.
However, Martin has dismissed these rumours, stating he is unaware of any transfer request from the Nigerian international.
“There's been no transfer request as far as I know. If I get told anything different, I'll tell you. He's training hard. He's not ready to play yet. He's only been back since Sunday so we'll have to wait and see,” Martin said, as quoted by SaintsExtra.
According to Martin, Trabzonspor's offer for Onuachu falls well below Southampton’s valuation of the striker, which stands at €13 million. The club is not considering selling him for less than this amount.
Despite joining Martin’s squad in Spain for pre-season training, Onuachu is reportedly unhappy with the current transfer situation between the two clubs.
Further reports suggest that Southampton's recent acquisitions of Juan and Rento Takaoka indicate the club may not have future plans for Onuachu.
As of now, there have been no official statements from Southampton, Trabzonspor, or Onuachu's camp regarding these developments. However, the situation remains fluid, and further updates are anticipated.
