Paul Onuachu will not play when Southampton hosts Brentford at the Gtech Community Stadium on Saturday (today).
On transfer deadline day, the Saints signed the Nigerian international from Belgian Pro League club KRC Genk.
The striker was purchased by the South Coast club for €18 million plus €3 in add-ons.
However, the British Home Office has not yet issued Onuachu a work permit, which would allow him to compete in the Premier League.
Alongside, Onuachu, Ghana midfielder, Kamaldeen Sulemana also linked up with the Saints on deadline day.
Southampton manager, Nathan Jones stated the two players are not available for selection against the Bees.
“They’re in the building but we’re limited with what we can do with them because of the work permit situation,” Jones told reporters ahead of the game.
“You’re better off ringing the Home Office to find out. We can keep asking but until we get clarification on their work permits, neither will be involved.”
Southampton occupies the last position in the Premier League table.