bet9ja.com
Belgian league leaders Genk have ambitious plans to transfer their top scorer, Tolu Arokodare, to the Premier League next summer after rejecting a €10 million offer from Turkish side Trabzonspor. Genk, who acquired Arokodare from French club Amiens for €5 million in January 2023, turned down the Turkish bid as they aim to secure a more lucrative deal in England's top flight, leveraging his impressive form this season.
bet9ja.com
Arokodare, currently the leading scorer in the Belgian Jupiler Pro League with eight goals and three assists, has caught the attention of top clubs due to his powerful performances. Despite his achievements, the Nigerian striker was once again omitted from Nigeria's Super Eagles squad. Genk’s sporting director, Dimitri de Condé, hopes to replicate the success of the transfer of former Genk striker Paul Onuachu to Southampton by orchestrating a high profile Premier League move for Arokodare.
bet9ja.com
Editorial
bit.ly
Tolu Arokodare’s situation highlights the gap that sometimes exists between club success and national recognition. Genk’s confidence in his value speaks volumes about his skill and consistency, particularly as he leads the scoring charts in Belgium. Yet, his exclusion from the Nigerian squad reflects the challenging reality faced by many players competing for international spots.
Arokodare’s journey demonstrates that a player's career is often a balance of individual ambition and the circumstances set by clubs and national teams. For Genk, retaining Arokodare until a prime offer comes along is a sound business strategy, especially given the rising interest in Nigerian talent across Europe. Meanwhile, the Premier League, known for its physicality and competitive intensity, could be an ideal next step for Arokodare, where he can showcase his prowess on a global stage.
For Nigeria, a closer look at emerging stars like Arokodare may offer the national team a fresh edge, especially as the Super Eagles seek to bolster their offensive lineup. In the end, Arokodare’s story reflects the resilience and perseverance required to make a mark both domestically and internationally. We hope to see his hard work rewarded with both club success and, perhaps, a call up to represent his nation.
Did You Know?
Genk has a history of [developing](https://www.footballinnigeria.com.ng/category/nigerian-premier-league/) and selling top Nigerian talents, including Wilfred Ndidi and Paul Onuachu, to major European leagues.
Arokodare began his European journey with Latvian side Valmiera before [joining French](https://www.footballinnigeria.com.ng/category/football-tactics-and-analysis/) club Amiens.
He is currently valued at €6.5 million on Transfermarkt, a testament to his rising profile.
[Genk’s Jupiler Pro League](https://www.footballinnigeria.com.ng/football-tactics-and-analysis/arokodare-celebrates-birthday-with-key-goal-in-genks-victory/) success this season has been bolstered by Arokodare’s goals, solidifying their position at the top of the table.
The Belgian Jupiler Pro League has become a significant stepping stone for African players aiming to transition to larger leagues.