A Belgian outlet, Voetbalkrant, has confirmed that representatives of Portuguese giants Benfica have arrived in Belgium to begin negotiation with KRC Genk over a potential move for Tolu Arokodare before the close of the January transfer window, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.
Arokodare has consistently been among the goals for Genk this season, scoring 14 goals and providing six assists in 23 league games. His impressive performance is one of the reasons the Limburgers are top of the Jupiler Pro League.
Known for letting out star players during the winter window, the Belgians are not ready to make the same mistakes they made in the past.
In 2023, Genk were in a similar situation and faced the same choice. The Limburgers did let Paul Onuachu leave and that eventually cost them the league title.
Genk are in the race for several titles this season, and head coach Thorsten Fink is keen on keeping the Nigerian striker until at least next summer.
“The Limburgers have clear title ambitions. But then no absolute strongman may leave,” Voetbalkrant wrote.
“One of those absolute stalwarts is of course Tolu Arokodare. Thorsten Finck is horrified at the idea that the attacker would leave. That is exactly what the Portuguese media claim to know. SL Benfica has reported to Limburg for Tolu.
“The Portuguese top club are currently preparing a bid for the 24-year-old Nigerian. Transfermarkt estimates his market value at €9m, but Dimitri De Condé expects at least double that amount.”
The 24-year-old Nigerian striker has been in fine form for the Belgian side this season, attracting interest from across Europe but losing him at this stage of the campaign would be a significant blow to their title ambitions.
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