Football: Newcastle, Bayern Munich Eye Super Eagles Striker Tolu Arokodare in Summer Transfer Battle
by Devesh Jaganath | by Devesh Jaganath
Arokodare on the Radar of European Powerhouses
Bayern Munich and Newcastle United are believed to have joined the list of clubs across Europe that are keeping tabs on Nigerian international Tolu Arokodare ahead of the summer transfer window, which will open on Sunday, June 1.
The 24-year-old striker has enjoyed an excellent season in the Belgian Pro League, having scored 20 goals and provided five assists in 37 league games to date. He is the joint-favourite for the Golden Boot award for 2024-25 according to the best online betting sites, currently tied with STVV attacker Adriano Bertaccini.
It is understood that Arokodare is currently valued in the region of €25 million and was previously being tracked by Turkish Super Lig side Trabzonspor, though a deal could not be finalised between the parties, leading to the striker remaining in Belgium.
His impressive form for Genk earned him his maiden call-up to the Nigerian national team for their 2026 World Cup qualifiers in March, where he featured against both Zimbabwe and Rwanda. While he was unable to open his account for the Super Eagles, Arokodare’s performances indicated that he is ready for the international level.
In addition to the Bavarians and the Magpies, it is reported that Borussia Dortmund and Stuttgart are also lining up offers for the 24-year-old forward, while Trabzonspor may still return with an improved offer to take him to the Super Lig.
Can Arokodare Help Solve Bayern, Newcastle Striker Dilemma?
Bayern Munich were confirmed as Bundesliga champions last weekend when Leverkusen dropped points away to Freiburg, marking the first-ever major trophy for Harry Kane, who made the move to the Allianz Arena at the start of last season.
The England captain is en route to winning the Golden Boot this season with 24 goals and has firmly established himself as the team’s talisman. However, at 31 years of age, Kane will need support, particularly given the increase in games with the Champions League's new expanded format.
It is understood that Vincent Kompany’s side is looking to bolster their attacking ranks next season, and Arokodare fits the profile the team are looking for. Mathys Tel was being groomed for the role, but there is a belief that he is considering making his loan move with Tottenham Hotspur a permanent deal.
Similarly, Newcastle United need reinforcements. Alexander Isak has had an excellent season for the Toons, scoring 23 goals and six assists in 32 Premier League games, but he has endured fairly frequent injury setbacks, which have left the team shorthanded at times.
Additionally, Callum Wilson will turn 34 next year, and ongoing injury issues have plagued him during his time at St. James’ Park. The England international has only featured in 15 league games this term and has not found the back of the net as yet this season.
Arokodare will be back in action on Sunday, when Genk take on Club Brugge in a crucial Belgian Pro League Championship round clash at Cegeka Arena.
