Belgian Pro League outfit KRC Genk have secured the long-term future of Super Eagles defender Christian Akpan after handing the versatile youngster a new four-year contract extension, Footynaija.com reports.
The new agreement keeps the 21-year-old at the Cegeka Arena until the summer of 2030, replacing his previous deal, which was due to expire in June 2027.
Rather than activating the optional years in his former contract, Genk opted to reward the Nigerian with a fresh long-term commitment following his impressive rise through the club’s ranks.
Akpan joined Genk from Ivory Coast’s Academie Mimosifcom in 2023 and initially featured for the club’s youth side, Jong Genk, where he made 59 appearances.
His impressive performances earned him a breakthrough into the senior team late last season, with the defender marking his playoff debut against KAA Gent by producing a Man of the Match display.
KRC Genk delighted by Akpan’s extension
Speaking after the announcement, Genk Head of Football Dimitri de Conde explained why the club were determined to secure Akpan’s future.
“We are pleased that Christian wants to commit his future to our club. Furthermore, due to his versatility, he is an extremely interesting profile for the technical staff. Players like him give coaches the ability to switch tactics during a match if necessary,” de Conde told the club’s official website.
Comfortable at left-back, right-back and in defensive midfield, Akpan’s versatility has made him one of Genk’s most highly regarded young talents, with the Belgian club viewing him as an important part of their long-term plans.
His impressive development has also been recognised on the international stage, earning him his senior Super Eagles debut in last month’s friendly against Portugal. With his future now settled until 2030, Akpan will be aiming to establish himself as a regular starter at Genk and also remain in Eric Chelle’s thinking ahead of upcoming AFCON 2027 qualification matches.
