DEAL DONE: Southampton’s attempt to sign an £8.5 million contract is now completed.

Image for Southampton rejected in pursuit to sign £8.5m Leeds United target in advanced talks – David Ornstein
Leeds United could have been given an indication of whether they will be able to sign Genk winger Joseph Paintsil, as he turned down the chance to join Southampton this week.

The Whites look a lot closer to being the finished article under Daniel Farke, purely because they have managed to bring in a striker with a proven record in front of goal.

More is needed for Farke to safely say his squad is ready for a promotion push in the Championship, and more attackers have been linked.

Joseph Paintsil to Leeds?
Sky Sports’s Dharmesh Sheth reported that Leeds are progressing with a move this week to sign Genk winger Joseph Paintsil, who could be set to leave the Belgian club, with “advanced talks” taking place now.

He was absent from their Europa Conference League clash last night as Genk came from behind to beat Adana Demirspor 2-1 at home in the first leg of their qualifying play-off.

Could Southampton sign him?
A move to Southampton was mooted for the Ghana international, but David Ornstein has shared that this deal is off the table for Russell Martin’s club.

It comes as the Saints tried to orchestrate a swap deal for their January signing from Genk, Paul Onuachu, in order to bring in the winger.

However, both players turned down the move:

🚨 Southampton direct swap with KRC Genk between #SaintsFC striker Paul Onuachu + #Genk winger Joseph Painstil now off. Clubs reached agreement & aimed to complete deal valuing both at €8m + €2m add-ons – but players have rejected the move

This could be an indication from Paintsil that he isn’t keen on dropping into the Championship from a side that is potentially playing in Europe.

Paintsil was one of Genk’s, and the Belgian top-flight’s best players last season, so he’s within his rights to think he’s worth more than a move to the EFL.

He’s a player who would add a great deal to our side, but only if we end up losing one or two of our current wingers, which shouldn’t be ruled out.

The fact we’re in advanced talks suggests a deal could still happen, but outgoings could come as a result.