Belgian side KRC Genk appear to be quietly laying the groundwork for a future without their star forward Tolu Arokodare, as interest from the Premier League continues to swirl around the in-form Nigerian, Soccernet.ng reports.
Arokodare, who enjoyed a stunning season under manager Thorsten Fink, has attracted attention from English clubs including Fulham, Burnley and Manchester United following a prolific campaign in which he netted 21 goals in 40 matches, helping him clinch the Jupiler Pro League’s Golden Boot.
The 24-year-old forward also made his senior Nigeria debut recently after he picked up the coveted Ebony Shoe.
Despite no formal bids yet materialising, Arokodare is reportedly keen on a move to England and even changed representation in an effort to make the jump to one of Europe’s top leagues.
Genk, however, are playing hardball. The club has reportedly placed a £25 million (₦52 billion) valuation on the striker — a figure that could cool interest from the likes of Burnley, who are newly promoted and operating with a limited transfer budget.
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Genk ready to replace Tolu Arokodare?
While Arokodare remains on the books at the Cegeka Arena for now, Genk’s sporting director Dimitri De Condé appears to be thinking ahead.
According to Swedish outlet Expressen as per Voetbal24, Genk have already lodged a €2 million bid for 20-year-old Cameroonian striker Aaron Bibout — a move that hints at their long-term planning.
Bibout, who currently plies his trade with Västerås SK in the Swedish second tier, has caught the eye with six goals in 12 appearances this season. Despite an earlier stint with LA Galaxy, the powerful young forward has only recently begun making a name for himself in Europe.
Sources: KRC Genk in talks to sign forward Aaron Bibout from Västerås SK.
Other teams in the mix. Talks ongoing.
Bibout, 20, only joined Västerås from LA Galaxy little more than 3 months ago. Already impressed scouts in Europe.
➕ LA Galaxy have sell-on clause around 25% pic.twitter.com/1m6fPTQyff
— Tom Bogert (@tombogert) July 2, 2025
Västerås, however, are reluctant to sell midway through the campaign and have rejected Genk’s opening offer. The club is reportedly holding out for a club-record fee of €3 million — the same figure Benfica once paid for Victor Lindelöf.
Västerås head coach Kalle Karlsson remains firm in his stance, stating: “We’ve made it clear to his representatives that a summer move is off the table. Our position is that he can leave at the end of the season — and only then. That said, interest is growing, and I wouldn’t be surprised if more clubs get involved.”
Arokodare’s own journey at Genk started under a cloud of uncertainty.
Initially tipped for a move to Anderlecht, he ended up in Limburg instead, with his early performances prompting criticism over his lack of impact in big games. That narrative, however, changed under Fink’s guidance.
The German coach entrusted Arokodare with a central role in his system, and the forward responded in emphatic fashion — adding consistency, goals, and maturity to his game. Now, with interest building and Genk prepared to cash in, the next few weeks could prove pivotal for the Nigerian’s future.