The LA Galaxy is pursuing Ghanaian worldwide winger Joseph Paintsil of KRC Genk, sources briefed on the scenario inform The Athletic.
Paintsil has a launch clause round $8.5million, although it expires early subsequent week. The Galaxy is but to set off that clause, sources say. It’ll be a tough deal to get completed with curiosity round Europe in Paintsil, however the Galaxy are engaged on it. The pursuit stays lively although no settlement on private phrases is imminent, sources say.
Paintsil, 25, is a goal-scoring winger who has exploded with Genk within the final 18 months. Last season he had 17 targets and 14 assists in 36 league appearances and up to now has six targets and 4 assists in 19 appearances this season.
He can play on both flank, however his career-best 2022-23 season got here predominantly for granted winger. Paintsil has 9 caps with Ghana.
The Galaxy is finalizing a deal to signal Brazilian winger Gabriel Pec, which is able to fill one in all their two open designated participant spots. Paintsil would fill the opposite if a deal will get completed.
Paintsil’s superior numbers present the kind of profile the Galaxy are chasing: A direct, goal-threat on the wing to enrich star No. 10 Riqui Puig.
Over the final yr, Paintsil is within the 93rd percentile amongst wingers in non-penalty targets per 90, 97th percentile in non-pen xG and 82nd percentile in anticipated assists.
His numbers are a lot decrease on passing stats which isn’t a problem with the Galaxy operating the sport by means of Puig. Puig wants extra goal-dangerous attackers round him, like Pec or Pantisil.
Additional reporting: Paul Tenorio
