Southampton manager Nathan Jones is optimistic about the impact of new signing Paul Onuachu in the Premier League. The towering 6ft 7in striker joined the Saints from Jupiler Pro League leaders Genk on a three-and-a-half-year deal worth £18 million. Onuachu became the club’s fifth signing in January, following the arrivals of Mislav Orsic, Charly Alcaraz, James Bree, and fellow deadline-day signing Kamaldeen Sulemana. During his time at Genk, Onuachu scored 17 goals in 22 appearances this season and tallied 85 goals in 134 games for the club, making him the top scorer in the Belgian top flight.
Jones expressed his enthusiasm for Onuachu’s arrival, stating, “Paul is a significant signing for us and completes what has been an extremely positive month in terms of recruitment. He’s a handful to play against, has got a tremendous record throughout his career, and he’s also someone who brings great experience with him, so he’ll be a really positive addition to the squad.”
Meanwhile, Genk’s sports director, Dimitri De Conde, acknowledged the club’s bittersweet feelings about Onuachu’s departure. He noted that the player had long dreamed of playing in the Premier League, saying, “We could no longer stop him from making his dream come true. I am pleased that Onuachu is also grateful to the club for that. His departure is, of course, a great loss for our current selection, but we were prepared for a possible departure.”
In a heartfelt farewell, Onuachu shared a video message on his social media account, thanking everyone who contributed to his growth at Genk. He expressed his gratitude to the coaches, technical staff, and supporters, wishing the club success in the future. “It is my greatest wish that they can take the title. Genk will always be my home, wherever I go,” he said.
Onuachu, who has made 16 appearances for Nigeria and scored three goals, could make his Premier League debut for Southampton against Brentford on Saturday. The former Midtjylland striker has a strong track record, having guided Genk to win the Belgian Cup and earned accolades such as the Golden and Ebony Shoes and the top scorer award. However, he faces the challenging task of helping Southampton, currently at the bottom of the Premier League table, escape the relegation zone.
Comments are closed for this story.