Arokodare could be the next Osimhen at Napoli – Ex Super Eagles striker

Super Eagles attacker Victor Osimhen donned the colours of Italian Serie A side Napoli from 2020 to 2025, leading them to their first Scudetto title in 33 years…

Former Nigeria international Dominic Iorfa has backed Tolu Arokodare to follow in the footsteps of Victor Osimhen if his proposed move to Napoli materialises this summer, Soccernet.ng reports.

Speaking exclusively to Footy-Africa, Iorfa described Napoli as an ideal destination for the 24-year-old Genk striker, who has been heavily linked with a switch to Italy in recent weeks.

The Serie A giants are in the market for a new forward following Romelu Lukaku’s injury setback, and reports suggest Arokodare has emerged as a serious target.

What Iorfa Said On Arokodare's Transfer

“Tolu [Arokodare] has been linked with a lot of clubs this summer, but this Napoli one looks more serious than the rest,” Iorfa said. “It’s unfortunate what happened to [Romelu] Lukaku, but Napoli have done their homework. Tolu [Arokodare] fits the profile. They are both big, strong, and powerful strikers.”

Napoli have already held talks with Arokodare’s camp, with Genk valuing the Nigerian at around €20–25 million.

Oh Hyun Gyu and Tolu Arokodare during the Jupiler Pro League match between KRC Genk and Royal Antwerp FC on November 3, 2024 in Genk, Belgium. [Photo Credit/ Imago].

Tolu Arokodare forward of KRC Genk during the Jupiler Pro League match between KRC Genk and Royal Antwerp FC. Copyright: Imago

While Manchester United’s Rasmus Højlund remains the club’s first-choice target, Arokodare is reportedly considered a strong alternative, according to multiple Italian and Nigerian outlets.

Can Genk Man Replace Osimhen?

Iorfa, who featured for the Super Eagles in the late 1980s and early 1990s, believes a successful move to Naples would be significant for Arokodare.

“It also makes for an interesting story. Victor Osimhen used to be Napoli’s main man, and Tolu could become the next Nigerian to lead their attack if this deal goes through. I’ll be very happy if it happens,” he added. “I also heard Victor Boniface might be heading to AC Milan. If both transfers come off, it will be fantastic for Nigerian football.”

Victor Osimhen during the serie A TIM match between SSC Napoli and AS Roma at Stadio Diego Armando Maradona on April 28, 2024 in Naples, Italy. [Photo Credit/ ImagoxFOTOGENIA].

Arokodare, who joined Genk in January 2023, has steadily built a reputation in Belgium with his physique and goal-scoring prowess.

Earlier this summer, he attracted interest from AC Milan and Atalanta, but Napoli appear to be pushing hardest for his signature.

If the deal is sealed, Arokodare would follow the path of Osimhen, who became a cult hero at the Diego Armando Maradona Stadium.