Newcastle United have set their sights on Nigerian striker Toluwalase Arokodare as they look to bolster their attacking options ahead of the summer transfer window, Footynaija.com reports.
The 24-year-old forward has been in fine form for Belgian side KRC Genk, scoring 20 goals and providing five assists in 38 appearances across all competitions this season. His performances have caught the eye of several European clubs, with Newcastle now joining the race for his signature.
Magpies boss Eddie Howe is believed to be an admirer of Arokodare’s profile and has reportedly urged the club’s hierarchy to make a move. Standing at 1.97m, the Super Eagle is known for his aerial presence, strong hold-up play, and finishing ability from a range of positions.
Tolu Arokodare signing the contract with 1.FC Koln pic.twitter.com/RBpq8aBBD9
— Baltic Football News (@Balticfootynews) September 18, 2020
According to reports from Africafoot, Newcastle have already made initial contact with Genk, but the Belgian club are holding out for a transfer fee in the region of €17 million.
Arokodare, whose contract runs until June 2027, is also attracting interest from Fulham, Trabzonspor, Benfica, and a Ligue 1 side.
Arokodare is no stranger to top-flight European football, having previously spent a season on loan at Bundesliga club FC Cologne from Latvian side Valmiera. He became the fifth Nigerian to represent Cologne, following in the footsteps of Sunday Oliseh, Pascal Ojigwe, Manasseh Ishiaku, and Anthony Ujah.
