Belgian outlet HLN (28/08, 8.16AM) claim that Joseph Paintsil has told current club KRC Genk he has no interest in leaving the Jupiler League giants – despite reports of an £8.5m bid from Leeds this summer.
Paintsil, 25, starred for Genk last season. The Ghana winger clocked up a huge 32 goals and assists during 22-23. Clubs have been circling and Leeds last week, tabled a bid to land the speedy wide man.
While Genk did not accept the initial £6.8m with £1.7m in add-ons, they returned with a counter-offer. It is unclear what Leeds did with said counter offer – but now, it appears a new twist in the tail for Paintsil.
It was previously believed that personal terms would not be an issue for Paintsil – who has also been the subject of interest from Saudi Pro League sides. However, the new report states the exact opposite.
Indeed, it is claimed that Paintsil has informed his current club – where he has a deal until June 2026 – that he does not want to leave, whether that be a move to Leeds, or any interested party, this week.
Paintsil has no interest in leaving despite £8.5m Leeds bid
A surprise, but perhaps an update that should not have been a shock. It comes as a surprise given initial reports suggested Paintsil would be keen on a move. But, Genk are fighting for a Belgian league title.
They have the potential to be invovled in the Europa Conference League groups – if they can get past the play-offs, leading 2-1 against Adana Demirspor from the first leg. Genk might seem more attractive.
Another point to make is, do Leeds need a winger? Dan James, Cree Summerville, Willy Gnonto, Luis Sinisterra and Ian Poveda all remain at the club. If one goes, perhaps. But it is not a priority right now.
Receive a digest of our best Leeds content each week direct to your mailbox
