Russell Martin’s side are undergoing the process of rejigging their squad in the ongoing transfer window.
They have yet to sign a new attacker this summer after witnessing the departures of Mohamed Elyounoussi and Mislav Orsic, with target Joel Piroe joining Leeds United.
They are also keen on offloading Onuchau, who has so far failed to live up to expectations at St. Mary’s Stadium.
Martin’s side identified Genk attacker Paintsil as an attacking reinforcement this summer.
And both the Saints and Genk were in talks to work on a swap deal involving Onuachu and Paintsil.
But now it is suggested that the players involved in the potential deal have rejected such a move and any possible deal between the two outfits is on the rocks.
It is indeed a blow for the Championship side who are eyeing securing immediate promotion this season.
And it remains to be seen how they will deal with such an adverse scenario next, with the clock ticking on the transfer window.