By Dorcas Francis Koji
Nigerian striker Paul Onuachu will partner one of world football’s biggest stars next season after Mohamed Salah completed his sensational move to Turkish Super Lig side Trabzonspor.
The Egyptian forward has signed a two-year contract reportedly worth €17 million per season, bringing an end to his glittering spell at Liverpool after leaving the Premier League club as a free agent following the expiration of his contract.
Trabzonspor officially confirmed Salah’s arrival on Wednesday, with the 34 year old touching down in Turkey ahead of a grand unveiling ceremony scheduled for Thursday evening at Papara Park.
The club called on supporters to attend the presentation wearing the club’s new home kit, describing the occasion as the beginning of a historic new chapter.
“Come to Papara Park in your new-season jersey to witness history and take the first step of this unforgettable journey together,” the club announced.
Salah’s arrival represents a major boost for Trabzonspor as they look to challenge for the Super Lig title after finishing third last season.
The former Liverpool star will now form a formidable attacking partnership with Onuachu, who revived his career in Turkey following his departure from Southampton.
The Super Eagles striker enjoyed an outstanding 2025/26 campaign, finishing as the joint top scorer in the Turkish Super Lig with 22 goals and two assists in 30 league appearances, establishing himself among the division’s most lethal forwards.
Trabzonspor fought off interest from clubs in Saudi Arabia and elsewhere to keep the Nigerian international, with Onuachu recently reaffirming his commitment to the club despite receiving offers 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 also revealed that he was determined to make his stay in Turkey permanent 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 significantly strengthen Trabzonspor’s attacking threat. The Egyptian legend ended his nine-year stay at Liverpool after scoring 255 goals in 435 appearances, winning multiple domestic and European honours while cementing his status as one of the greatest African footballers of all time.
Known for his creativity, movement and clinical finishing, Salah is expected to provide Onuachu with quality service as Trabzonspor seek to reclaim the Turkish league title.
With two prolific goalscorers leading the line, expectations will be high that Trabzonspor can mount a serious title challenge and compete strongly in European competition next season.
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