Fulham, Trabzonspor told no chance of signing Nigeria’s leading goalscorer in Europe this January – “Intention is to keep him”

KRC Genk chairman Peter Croonen has categorically ruled out the possibility of Nigerian striker Tolu Arokodare leaving the club during the January transfer window, Soccernet.ng reports.

The 24-year-old Nigerian has been in scintillating form this season, scoring 12 goals and providing six assists in 21 matches across all competitions. Arokodare is Nigeria’s leading goalscorer across Europe’s major leagues so far in the 2024/25 season. 

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Since joining Genk in January 2023 from French side Amiens SC for €5 million, Arokodare has steadily evolved into a key player.

His performances have reportedly attracted interest from Premier League side Fulham and Turkish giants Trabzonspor.

Despite this, Croonen has declared the towering forward “absolutely” integral to the club’s plans.

“The intention is absolutely to keep him. And that will happen,” Croonen told DAZN via Voetbal Nieuws, firmly shutting down rumours of a winter departure.

Arokodare’s Impact on Genk’s Campaign

Under new head coach Thorsten Fink, Genk have made an impressive start to the 2024/25 campaign, leading the Belgian Pro League table with 41 points from 19 games.

Much of their success has been credited to Arokodare, who is currently tied with Kasper Dolberg and Adriano Bertaccini in the league’s top scorers’ chart with 11 goals.

Initially, Arokodare faced skepticism after his move from Amiens.

While his physical presence was never in doubt, critics pointed to technical shortcomings.

However, Fink’s faith in the young Nigerian has paid off spectacularly, with the forward now flourishing as a focal point in Genk’s attack.

Arokodare’s contributions go beyond goals. His ability to hold up play and involve teammates has been crucial, especially as Genk lack another player with his profile.

“It really doesn’t matter who scores. If I score, I’m happy. If I don’t but provide an assist, I’m just as happy,” Arokodare told DAZN via Voetbal Primeur.

Eyes on the Prize

Despite his stellar form, Arokodare remains grounded.

He insists that personal accolades, such as the top scorer’s award, take a backseat to the team’s success.

“If the team does well, you automatically do well yourself. It would be nice to be top scorer, but it would be more fun to play champion,” he added.

Arokodare is determined to tick “champion” off his career bucket list, having never won a league title.

With Genk currently three points ahead of defending champions Club Brugge, the Nigerian striker’s goals will be pivotal in maintaining their advantage.

By keeping Arokodare, Genk aim to ensure their title charge remains on course.

As the January window looms, it appears that Genk’s talismanic forward will stay exactly where he is—at the heart of their quest for glory.