Future of Liverpool target Isak hinges on Wolves completing deal for Genk striker Arokodare

Wolverhampton Wanderers are preparing a move for Racing Genk striker Tolu Arokodare, with the Nigerian forward valued at around €25 million in what could be a record sale for the Belgian club, according to Belgian newspaper Het Laatste Nieuws. 

Arokodare may prove central to the most significant international transfer of the summer window. 

At Wolverhampton Wanderers, he is viewed as the natural successor to Jørgen Strand Larsen, while at Newcastle United, the Norwegian forward is tipped to step into the role of Alexander Isak, whose future has been clouded by persistent interest from Liverpool.

Arokodare has been one of the most talked-about names in the transfer market this summer, with interest previously emerging from Italy and Germany. 

Napoli and AC Milan had both monitored his progress but have since shifted their focus, leaving Wolves well placed to secure his services before the window closes.

Genk are believed to have set an asking price of €25m, including bonuses, and are optimistic negotiations will reach an agreement. 

If completed, the transfer would eclipse the €18m fee received from Southampton for compatriot Paul Onuachu in January 2023.

Arokodare joined Genk from French outfit Amiens for €5m and initially endured a slow start. 

Under the guidance of coach Thorsten Fink, however, the towering 1.97m striker flourished, finishing last season as the Jupiler Pro League’s top scorer with 21 goals. 

His prolific form also earned him a call-up to the Nigerian national team, cementing his reputation as one of Europe’s emerging forwards.

While Arokodare had been expected to feature in Genk’s Europa League qualifying second leg against Lech Poznań, his participation is now uncertain as talks with Wolves progress. 

The Belgian side are already preparing for his departure, having signed 20-year-old Cameroonian forward Aaron Bibout and expressing interest in Swedish striker Jusef Erabi.

Wale Adejumo

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