'Behaving very professionally' – Genk chief gives update on future of Napoli target Arokodare

Racing Genk’s Head of Football, Dimitri de Condé, has spoken on the future of Nigerian striker Tolu Arokodare amid intensifying transfer speculation, insisting the club will only consider a move that aligns with both their sporting and financial objectives.

Arokodare, 24, has been linked with several clubs throughout the summer, with Napoli now accelerating their pursuit following the injury setback to Romelu Lukaku. 

The Belgium international suffered a significant muscle injury during a pre-season friendly, ruling him out for the early part of the Serie A campaign. 

Napoli manager Antonio Conte has subsequently turned to the transfer market, with Arokodare emerging as a leading candidate.

Speaking to Het Belang van Limburg via Voetbal Primeur, De Condé emphasized that while Genk remain open to the possibility of a sale, they are not prepared to compromise their European ambitions. 

"We’re experiencing an unpredictable transfer window, especially for strikers, and the carousel is slow to get going,” he said. 

"But we’re sticking to our agreement that we’re open to a top transfer; I still believe there’s a good chance of that. 

"Meanwhile, Tolu is behaving very professionally and is completely at the coach’s disposal."

Arokodare has been included in Genk’s Europa League play-off squad against Lech Poznań, reflecting the club’s desire to maintain stability during a decisive period. 

Since joining Genk in January 2023, the Nigerian forward has developed into a key attacking outlet, finishing as the Belgian Pro League’s top scorer last season with 21 goals and six assists in 40 appearances.

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano reports that Napoli made initial contact with Arokodare’s representatives on Tuesday, with Genk valuing the striker at €20-25 million. 

While other options such as Juventus’ Dusan Vlahovic and Crystal Palace’s Jean-Philippe Mateta remain under consideration, Arokodare’s affordability and prolific record make him an attractive choice for the Italian champions.

For now, Arokodare’s future hangs in the balance, with Genk determined not to weaken their squad ahead of crucial European fixtures, even as Napoli push to secure a replacement for the injured Lukaku.

Wale Adejumo

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