Exclusive: MLS Star Joseph Paintsil Draws Turkish Interest as Ligue 1 Bids Rejected

After a stellar season with LA Galaxy, Joseph Paintsil has emerged as one of the most high-profile names in the 2026 winter transfer window. 

The Ghanaian winger, celebrated for his clinical finishing and explosive pace, is at the center of a brewing tug-of-war between Turkey’s Süper Lig and Europe’s top-five leagues.

​Ligue 1 Offers Vetoed

​The most critical update involves LA Galaxy’s firm stance. 

According to insiders, two Ligue 1 clubs from France officially inquired about Paintsil this week, but LA Galaxy and MLS management rejected these bids as "insufficient." 

It is clear that the club will only consider parting with their star man if a record-breaking offer is put on the table, reflecting his status as one of the league's elite attackers.

Trabzonspor’s Persistence and the "Onuachu" Factor

With the French bids turned down, attention has now shifted to Trabzonspor. The Turkish giants are working tirelessly to bring the 28-year-old back to the Süper Lig, where he previously excelled with Ankaragücü. 

Trabzonspor is in constant dialogue with LA Galaxy, seeing Paintsil as a potential "title-winning" addition to their frontline. 

Reports indicate that Paintsil’s former teammate, Paul Onuachu, who played alongside him at Genk in Belgium, is playing a key role in the negotiations, personally pitching the Trabzon project to the winger. 

With the Turkish transfer window remaining open until 6th February, there is still plenty of time for a deal to progress, unlike in most European leagues, which have already closed.

Meanwhile, Evander’s situation mirrors the ongoing MLS transfer buzz, with Brazilian giants Flamengo, Palmeiras, Botafogo, and Vasco da Gama circling the FC Cincinnati star, highlighting how North American clubs are increasingly navigating high-profile international interest.

​Financial Demands & Contract Details

LA Galaxy holds all the cards in this negotiation. Having invested $9 million in his transfer in 2024, the American club is holding out for a substantial return on their investment. 

Following the rejection of the French offers, Galaxy has reportedly set a firm asking price of between €17 and €20 million. 

Paintsil is under contract with the club until December 31, 2027, which means the Galaxy hierarchy feels no pressure to sell unless their valuation is met. Currently earning around $2 million per year, Paintsil is also expected to seek a significant pay rise and a signing bonus if he were to return to European football.

​Tactical Analysis: What’s Next?

For LA Galaxy, this is a masterclass in squad engineering. 

The club is unlikely to approve a sale unless they have a world-class replacement lined up. With the 2026 CONCACAF Champions Cup on the horizon, Galaxy’s priority remains keeping their offensive core intact. 

However, if Trabzonspor increases their bid above €17 million, the MLS side may prioritize financial sustainability and approve the transfer. 

While Galaxy fans fear losing a key architect of their recent success, Trabzonspor supporters are already dreaming of the "speed machine" lighting up Akyazı Stadium.