TURKISH side Trabzonspor are reportedly set to begin negotiations for the permanent transfer of Saints striker Paul Onuachu. 

The Nigerian international has scored nine goals and provided three assists in 16 Super Lig appearances this season.

Trabzonspor currently pay Saints a fee for the loan of Onuachu, whose current deal is set to expire at the end of the season.

Onuachu, signed from Belgian champions Genk by Saints in January 2023 for a fee of 18 million Euros, is contracted at St Mary's until 2026. 

However, he is unlikely to play for Saints again and Turkish publication Star report Trabzonspor's keenness to keep the six-foot seven-inch ace. 

They detail that management will begin negotiations for Onuachu, with manager Abdullah Avcı pleased with his contribution on the field and harmony within the team.

The report adds Trabzonspor will look to seal a permanent transfer first, with Onuachu having indicated he would be happy to make the move.

If the Turkish side are unable to agree a fee with Saints, they will look to extend the terms of his loan transfer to the continent. 

Saints are likely to look for a new striker in the summer transfer market but targets will depend on the club's division next season.

Saints could look to cash in on the likes of Onuachu and Romain Perraud, who is out on loan at Nice this campaign.