Benfica eye Nigerian striker Tolu Arokodare ahead of transfer deadline

Portuguese giants Benfica have expressed interest in Nigerian forward Tolu Arokodare, initiating contact with Belgian club KRC Genk as the January transfer window nears its close.

The 24-year-old striker has been in scintillating form this season, attracting attention from top European clubs.

Reports via Voetbalkrant suggest that Benfica is preparing a €9 million bid for Arokodare.

However, Genk are reportedly holding out for a significantly higher fee, with sources indicating they value the player at double that amount.

Sporting director Dimitri De Condé is particularly cautious after Genk’s 2023 sale of Paul Onuachu, which disrupted their title race that season.

Arokodare has been pivotal in Genk’s campaign, scoring 14 goals in 23 league appearances and helping the club secure their position at the top of the Jupiler Pro League.

Losing him mid-season could jeopardize their championship aspirations, a concern echoed by head coach Thorsten Fink.

Reports indicate Fink is determined to retain Arokodare until the summer to maintain the squad’s momentum.

Benfica, however, remain eager to strengthen their attack with a late bid, testing Genk’s resolve.

While Genk might consider a deal, they prefer arrangements allowing Arokodare to stay until the season’s end.