In the history of complete transfer flops, there’s a strong chance Paul Onuachu’s move to Southampton in the January transfer window will be named among them for years to come.
The striker arrived at Southampton in an €18m deal from KRC Genk as the Saints tried to strengthen their forward line in the winter window and avoid relegation.
The move from Genk was an emotional one for him and the Belgian club, with it made clear that Onuachu had pushed simply to get his shot at the Premier League. Genk, though, remain in his heart, as his latest message to them may signify.
While the goals, nor appearances, have been coming at Southampton it was not the case at his former club, where he managed 85 goals and ten assists in 134 appearances since joining from FC Midtjylland in August 2019.
That’s made him something of an icon at the club, with his move to Southampton in January even derailing their season somewhat.
That season comes to a conclusion this weekend when they take on Antwerp in the playoffs at the top of the Belgian Pro League, ahead of which Onuachu sent them a message with one interesting comment in particular.
“A little message from me. You know what’s at stake. Another final, lads,” he said.
“The staff have given you a lot since the start of the season. I’m very proud of you, including myself. You’ve shown that you’re the best team in Belgium.
“Give everything you’ve got for this final match. Play for your family, your children, the club and the fans. I have a lot of faith in you.
“Even if I’m not there, my heart is always with you. I don’t need to explain that to anyone. I’m convinced that you deserve this title, more than any other team. I wish you all the best on Sunday. I hope you win the title in front of the wonderful Genk fans. Good luck.”
Now, while that message may be nothing more than a simple good luck one, the idea of Onuachu’s heart still being in Belgium is interesting ahead of the summer transfer window.
His time at Southampton has been nothing short of a disaster and given they’re now back in the Championship, it seems unlikely he’ll be sticking around.
Whether that will lead to a fast return to his former club is debatable.
