Nigeria Players Abroad
Thorsten Fink provides update on Tolu Arokodare amid summer exit speculation
By Oluwadamilola Olaleye
KRC Genk head coach Thorsten Fink has weighed in on mounting speculation surrounding the future of Nigerian striker Tolu Arokodare, amid growing interest from several top European clubs.
Arokodare, who finished as the top scorer in the Jupiler Pro League last season, has attracted attention from Serie A heavyweights including AC Milan, Atalanta, and Juventus.
While enquiries have been made, no official bid has yet been submitted as clubs continue to monitor his situation.
Speaking during a pre-match press conference ahead of Genk’s clash with Antwerp, Fink acknowledged the uncertainty around Arokodare’s future but stressed that the club would remain measured in its approach.
“This is a difficult time for coaches and players, who are still hoping to make a good transfer,” Fink said.
“But someone like Tolu remains available in the meantime. We’re just not going to do anything crazy if a transfer is in the offing. (Smiles) If he’s on the match sheet, you can assume there’s nothing planned.”
Reports suggest that AC Milan have already reached a personal agreement with Arokodare, though Genk are holding firm in their valuation and are seeking a significant transfer fee.
Initial discussions have begun, and there is growing belief that a deal could surpass the club’s record sale — the €25 million move of Sander Berge to Sheffield United in 2020.
Arokodare, 23, joined Genk from French club Amiens in January 2023 for €5 million. He is currently under contract with the Belgian side until June 2027.
Should a deal materialize, it would mark one of the most lucrative outgoing transfers in Genk’s history — and a major step forward in Arokodare’s rising career.
