Bayern Munich are reportedly plotting a surprise €25m move for a former Bundesliga flop as they view him as Harry Kane's back-up.
Article continues below
Article continues below
Article continues below
Bayern want more firepower up frontHave zeroed in on Tolu Arokodare from GenkReady to spend €25m for the former FC Koln strikerFollow GOAL on WhatsApp! 🟢📱WHAT HAPPENED?
The Bavarian giants, according to have begun initial discussions over a possible €25 million transfer (£21m) for Nigerian striker Tolu Arokodare as they explore affordable options to provide reliable backup to Kane.
AdvertisementAFPTHE BIGGER PICTURE
Despite Arokodare’s previous underwhelming stint in the Bundesliga with FC Köln during the 2020/21 season, where he failed to score in 10 loan appearances, the 24-year-old’s recent transformation into a top marksman in Belgium with KRC Genk has reignited interest from clubs across Europe. He has netted 19 goals in 34 appearances this season, putting him at the top of the division's scoring charts and helping position Genk for a potential league title under German coach Thorsten Fink.
DID YOU KNOW?
At this stage, the discussions between Bayern and Genk are understood to be exploratory, focusing on the potential structure and feasibility of a deal. The Belgian side have placed a €25 million price tag on the striker, who is contracted until 2027 and reportedly earns around €1.5 million annually. While no formal offer has been tabled, Bayern’s interest is genuine, and the club is weighing up the merits of making a move. However, they must act swiftly, as Borussia Dortmund and VfB Stuttgart are also said to be monitoring his progress, with both clubs potentially interested in bringing him back to the Bundesliga.
AFPWHAT NEXT?
With Bayern operating under a tighter financial framework than in past seasons, the search for a cost-effective striker has become a priority. Rather than splashing out on big-money signings like Viktor Gyökeres or Benjamin Sesko, the Bavarians appear keen to identify players who offer high potential without draining their transfer budget.
Names like Nick Woltemade (VfB Stuttgart), Jonathan Burkardt (Mainz 05), and Chelsea's Christopher Nkunku have all been linked with moves to the Allianz Arena. However, most of these players either come with steep valuations or contract complications that make negotiations more challenging. Arokodare, by contrast, represents a relatively affordable alternative.