A swap deal between Paul Onuachu and Joseph Paintsil is off despite Southampton and Genk agreeing a deal. The players have rejected the move.
The Athletic have reported a potential deal is off.
Onuachu joined the Saints in January and wasn’t able to score a goal in 12 appearances in the Premier League.
Paintsil had been linked to a move to the South coast and it appeared a swap deal was possible.
He has been at the Belgian side for five years and made 143 appearances, scoring 32 goals.
A new forward has been on the agenda at St Mary’s following the sales of Mohamed Elyounoussi and Mislav Orsic.
Joel Piroe was a target for Russell Martin’s side. He has now been confirmed as a signing for Leeds United.
Despite a forward being wanted, Che Adams and Onuachu have been linked heavily with a move away.
Onuachu and Paintsil appeared to be involved in a swap deal, but it is rumoured that the deal has been rejected on the players side.
At the time of writing, there is no other irons in the fire as of yet.
Paintsil scored 17 and and assisted an additional 11 last season.
He would be an awesome signing as Saints look to bounce back to the Premier League at the first chance.
A potential deal was worth £7 million going each way.
With this deal being rebuffed, Martin’s side will be desperate to go out and an attempt to make an attacking signing.
Nathan Tella, Samuel Edozie and Adam Armstrong have formed a good attacking trio so far this season.
At just 20-years old, Edozie will need time to rest throughout the season to benefit him.
Sekou Mara is still at the club and was substituted on against Plymouth Arygle.
At 21-years old himself, he could be a great option for Martin alternating potentially as a striker or as a winger.
If Southampton can keep hold of their attacking talent as the transfer deadline passes, they will have a great squad moving forward into the season.