Southampton are pushing to sign United States international Damion Downs as they prepare for Paul Onuachu’s exit to Trabzonspor, NaijNaira can report.
Onuachu is set to return to Trabzonspor after a strong 2023–24 campaign in Turkey, where he scored 17 goals in 25 matches, as reported by Sky Sport Germany.
The Nigerian forward didn’t settle in at Southampton, managing just four goals across 40 appearances in all competitions.
In response, Southampton are targeting Downs from newly promoted Bundesliga side Cologne in a deal worth around €8 million.
Downs led Cologne’s scoring chart last season in Germany’s second division, recording 10 goals and five assists across 29 games.
At 6ft 4in, Downs offers a similar physical presence to Onuachu, who stands at 6ft 7in.
Both players are known for their strength in the air and ability to battle defenders in the box.
Downs is currently representing the United States at the CONCACAF Gold Cup and recently earned his senior debut under Mauricio Pochettino.
Southampton see him as a direct replacement who can adapt quickly to the physical demands of English football.
The 20-year-old still has one year left on his Cologne contract, which runs until June 30, 2026.
Article updated 5 hours ago. Content is written and modified by multiple authors.
