Joseph Paintsil has completed a high-profile £7 million transfer to LA Galaxy, following his admission earlier that he declined offers from Championship contenders Leeds United and Southampton.
The Saints, in particular, might rue their approach last summer when they failed to capture the KRC Genk standout. Paintsil had observed the difficulties his ex-Genk colleague Paul Onuachu faced at Southampton, struggling to replicate his Belgian league success due to a lack of support, which likely influenced his decision to reject a move there.
Rejecting Leeds and Southampton
Paintsil opened up about his decision in a September 2023 interview with Het Laatste Nieuws, stating, “There were many possibilities. When my agent mentioned Southampton and Leeds United, I immediately knew I didn’t want to leave Genk for them. Every player has their aspirations. I dream of playing in the Premier League or another top-five European league someday. It’s not that I think Southampton and Leeds are bad teams; they just didn’t convince me.”
It appears Paintsil believes his path to one of Europe’s premier leagues might well go through an American adventure. Just seven months after turning down Leeds and Southampton, the 26-year-old Ghanaian international has committed to LA Galaxy in the MLS.
Despite Leeds and Southampton being in strong positions to achieve promotion back to the Premier League, with Leeds especially on a winning streak, Paintsil will be heading to LA Galaxy instead.
Joining LA Galaxy
“Joseph has been an integral part of one of Belgium’s top clubs and a standout on the African international scene. We’re excited to confirm he’s joining LA Galaxy,” stated general manager Will Kuntz, highlighting Paintsil as their second-most expensive signing. “Adding such a dynamic forward in his prime to our squad marks a significant moment in our quest for more trophies.”
Last season, Paintsil had an impressive tally of 18 goals and 14 assists for Genk, showcasing his skills as a potent attacking force.
Leeds, meanwhile, boasts a wealth of talent in the attacking midfield area, with players like Crysencio Summerville, Daniel James, Joel Piroe, Georginio Rutter, and Willy Gnonto, making the competition for starting spots fierce.
