Benfica have expressed strong interest in signing KRC Genk forward Tolu Arokodare, following the Nigerian striker’s standout season in the Belgian Pro League.
The 24-year-old has emerged as one of the most sought-after attacking talents in Europe, having finished the 2024/25 campaign as the league’s top scorer with 21 goals.
His prolific form also earned him the prestigious Ebony Shoe award, presented annually to the best African player in Belgium.
According to reports from Belgian outlet Voetbalkrant, the Portuguese giants are now closely monitoring Arokodare’s situation, joining a growing list of clubs across Europe keeping tabs on the Genk striker.
Interest has reportedly come from teams in Germany, France, and the English Premier League, placing Genk in a potentially lucrative negotiating position.
Arokodare’s rise has been swift since his move to Genk from French side Amiens SC in January 2023. Initially viewed as a promising but raw talent, he has quickly evolved into a reliable goal-scorer and a central figure in Genk’s attacking strategy.
Genk are believed to be open to selling the forward this summer, with his market value expected to climb following a breakthrough season that not only highlighted his goal-scoring instinct but also his physicality and ability to lead the line.
Currently away on international duty with Nigeria, Arokodare has not commented on the speculation surrounding his future.
However, with transfer activity already picking up across Europe, it is expected that conversations between interested parties will accelerate once the international window concludes.
Benfica, known for developing and showcasing attacking talent, appear eager to reinforce their front line after a mixed domestic season.
Arokodare’s profile fits the club’s recruitment strategy — young, proven in European competition, and with significant potential resale value.
The Nigerian striker’s combination of pace, strength, and finishing prowess has impressed scouts across Europe. At just 24, his best years are arguably still ahead of him, and his performances this past season have not gone unnoticed among clubs looking to bolster their attacking options.
His success in Belgium culminated not only in individual honours but also in helping Genk maintain their position among the country’s top clubs.
While no official bids have been confirmed, Genk’s readiness to negotiate suggests a move could materialise swiftly, should a club meet their valuation.
As the summer transfer market begins to take shape, Arokodare’s future will be closely watched. With Benfica now firmly in the frame and competition heating up from other top European sides, the next few weeks could prove decisive in determining the next chapter of his career.
For Genk, it marks a potential windfall from a player who arrived with modest expectations and leaves with his name among the most in-demand strikers on the continent.
