Racing Genk manager Thorsten Fink has advised Tolu Arokodare to shun offers from abroad and remain in Belgium where he is considered the best of all the centre-forwards on parade, according to a report.
Arokodare has faced a fair share of criticisms since joining Genk from SC Amiens in January 2023 for €5 million. KRC Genk acquired the tall Nigerian striker after sanctioning the departure of compatriot Paul Onuachu to Southampton.
Despite critics in Belgium slamming Arokodare for his alleged bad positional play, physical inability, and lack of duel power, the 23-year-old is once again being courted by Trabzonspor this summer.
The former Turkish champions are keen on signing Arokodare after failing to get Southampton to sell Onuachu – who impressed at the club during a loan spell last season.
On Sunday, Arokodare showed why he is a much sought-after striker as he headed home a late equaliser for Genk in their 3-2 comeback win over bitter rivals Club Brugge.
After the encounter, club boss Fink was full of praise for the Nigerian lad, calling him the best striker in Belgium and hoping that he stays in Genk despite interest in his services elsewhere.
“Believe me, there is no better striker in Belgium than Tolu,” said Thorsten Fink as per a source.
“On condition that he plays with passion. He showed that against Club Brugge.
“I am convinced that I can get the best out of him. Tolu knows that I believe in him. I hope to convince him to stay at Racing Genk. You won’t find a striker with his qualities for less than ten million.”
It was earlier disclosed that the former Amiens star is not looking to leave Genk this summer.
The Box-to-Box FC academy product confirmed this when he revealed he would still be at Genk when the transfer window slams shut.
“I don’t think this was my last game at Genk,” Arokodare said.
Arokodare, who is under contract until 30 June 2027, has scored 19 goals and provided 5 assists in 66 matches for Genk.
Olaitan Ibrahim