Genk coach Peter Croonen has confirmed that Nigerian striker Toluwalase "Tolu" Arokodare will remain with the club this summer, rejecting claims he might leave during the January transfer window. This assertion comes amid growing attention from top clubs, following Arokodare’s breakout season as Genk’s leading goalscorer.
The 24 year old has been in scintillating form scoring 14 goals and providing six assists in just 22 appearances making him one of the top across Europe’s major leagues. Despite rumours of interest from Premier League outfits like Fulham, and Turkish giants Trabzonspor, Croonen insisted "The intention is absolutely to keep him. And that will happen," as he addressed the press.
This stance contrasts with Genk’s historical practice of selling star players mid-season such as Paul Onuachu and Daniel Muñoz but the club now deems Arokodare indispensable to their campaign, both domestically and in Europe.
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Editorial
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We commend Genk’s firm decision to retain Arokodare. In an era where financial incentives often dictate player sales, prioritising sporting continuity shows admirable ambition and makes a statement of confidence in long-term success.
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We believe Arokodare’s impact this season cannot be overstated. His 14 goals and six assists in 22 games are elite numbers enough to make any club pause. Europe-wide scouts will take note, but Genk have rightly chosen to ride the momentum sports can’t pause for profit.
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We also feel this stance benefits the player. Stability breeds development a full season in a thriving environment can enhance his transfer value more than a mid-season departure ever could. He’s growing under structured coaching and fit-in systems.
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We hold that when the summer window does arrive, Genk will have both leverage and value. And Arokodare will be entering the stage fit, confident, and ready to negotiate from strength.
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We assert that bold retention builds belief. Genk betting on Arokodare is a signal to the squad, fans, and prospective recruits that they back their talent. We stand with them in football, faith must first be placed then deserved.
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Did You Know?
Tolu Arokodare won the 2025 Ebony Shoe, awarded to the best African player in Belgium, after 22 goals and 7 assists in 43 matches.
He stands at an imposing 1.97 m tall, combining physical presence with aerial and technical ability.
Before Genk, Arokodare spent time on loan at 1. FC Köln and Amiens, where he earned 55 caps and netted 14 goals across two seasons.
His current Genk contract runs until 2027, giving the club both time and control in any future deal.
In April 2025, he declared his dream was to play in the Premier League, and reportedly told reporters that only Real Madrid could lure him from Genk mid‑season.