Turkish Super Lig club Trabzonspor have filed a complaint with FIFA against Saudi Pro League side Al Ahli over their pursuit of Super Eagles striker Paul Onuachu, accusing the Saudi club of making direct contact with the player without their consent, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.
Onuachu enjoyed a sensational campaign with Trabzonspor last season, registering 26 goals and two assists in 26 appearances across all competitions. His prolific form helped the Black Sea Storm secure a top-three league finish and lift the Turkish Cup, while also earning him the Turkish Super Lig Golden Boot.
His impressive performances have attracted interest from clubs across Europe and the Middle East, with Al Ahli emerging as the most serious suitor. The Saudi club is reportedly prepared to offer the Nigerian striker a deal worth four times his current salary.
However, Trabzonspor are dissatisfied with the manner in which Al Ahli have conducted their pursuit. According to Puskas Sports, the Turkish club allege that the Saudi side approached Onuachu directly to discuss a potential transfer despite the striker having two years remaining on his contract.
Under FIFA regulations, clubs are only permitted to negotiate directly with a player during the final six months of their contract unless they first obtain permission from the player's current club.
Trabzonspor are reportedly open to selling the 31-year-old, but only for a transfer fee between €10m and €15m. The club also expects Onuachu to formally request a move, a step he has yet to take.
If FIFA finds Al Ahli guilty of breaching its transfer regulations, the Saudi club could face disciplinary sanctions, including a financial penalty. Meanwhile, Onuachu's future is expected to remain one of the major talking points as the summer transfer window unfolds.
