SAINTS manager Russell Martin revealed Paul Onuachu is back training at the club despite a permanent exit looking likely this summer.

The Nigerian international spent last season on loan at Turkish side Trabzonspor, scoring 17 goals in 25 appearances.

Former Genk top scorer Onuachu, 30, has only played 12 times for Saints since signing in January 2023 when Nathan Jones was the manager.

Saints hope to sell Onuachu permanently and several clubs in Turkey have shown an interest but so far have not agreed a deal to take him.

Martin, speaking after his side's 7-1 friendly win at Eastleigh, said: "Paul is back now with us after a bit of an extended break.

Paul Onuachu cost Saints around £15million to sign from GenkPaul Onuachu cost Saints around £15million to sign from Genk (Image: Stuart Martin)

"He had a brilliant season in Turkey, at a club that has a lot of affection for him now. So, we'll have to wait and see. 

"They all have a chance while they're back here. They all have a chance. As the pre-season pans out, then they assess their situation in terms of what it looks like.

"Whether they're going to be playing, if they're going to be involved or not, then it will be a discussion between us and then we'll wait and see."

Martin added: "But everyone who's back here, genuinely, you have to have a chance. We haven't got the biggest squad at the moment either.

"We have a lot of young guys involved at the moment, so they have a chance to stake their claim."

Onuachu could join Saints for their trip to Spain on Sunday, where they will undergo a week-long training camp with two friendly fixtures.

Saints will face French sides Bordeaux and Montpellier before returning to conclude their pre-season schedule on English soil in August.

"We just want more progression, more improvement, more fitness, more adaptation tactically to what we want from the new guys and just time together," Martin said.

"I really enjoy being with this group and they enjoy being there with Shea, so I'm looking forward to it and a bit of sun.

Striker Che Adams is out of contract and has not returned to Saints this season, amid interest from elsewhere. 

Saints have left their contract offer open to the Scotland international and his future is not yer decided.

Martin explained: "I don't know where he is at the moment.

"We'll touch base I'm sure at some point, but yes, it looks at this minute in time unlikely he will be back. But things change in football so we'll wait and see."