There is likely going to be a Nigerian transfer musical chairs this season as Turkish side Trabzonspor continue negotiations with Southampton for the potential re-loan of Paul Onuachu, who has become an indispensable part of the team this season.
The Super Eagles striker secured a loan move to Turkey from English Championship side Southampton and has been a man on fire ever since.
However, in the eventuality that the transfer of Onuachu fails to materialize, Trabzonspor have swiftly activated alternative plans.
Tolu Arokodare as Paul Onuachu's alternative
Their sights are now set on another Nigerian forward, Tolu Arokodare, who currently plies his trade with Belgian side KRC Genk.
At just 23 years of age, Tolu Arokodare has garnered attention with his stellar performances at Genk throughout the season.
Despite Genk's challenges, the towering striker, standing at an impressive 1.97 meters, has showcased his prowess with 15 goals and three assists in 48 matches this campaign.
Arokodare's contract runs until 2027, and his market value of 4 million euros aligns with Trabzonspor's financial considerations, as reported by Turkish football website Taka Gazette.
The club's scouting team has been meticulously tracking Arokodare's progress, indicating a genuine interest in securing his services.
What makes Arokodare an appealing option?
Both Nigerian strikers boast similar physical attributes, which align perfectly with Trabzonspor's style of play.
Head Coach Abdullah Avcı favors a robust presence up front, complemented by technically adept players who can deliver crosses into the box—a strategy that has yielded success for the team this season with 64 goals—the third-best in the league.
Despite Onuachu's impressive goal-scoring record—14 goals in just 20 games—Trabzonspor faces stiff competition from Southampton, who are eager to bring the striker back to England after he rediscovered his form while on loan in Turkey.
As efforts to retain Onuachu persist, Trabzonspor remain pragmatic, pursuing Arokodare as a viable Plan B.
Reportedly, Abdullah Avcı has greenlit Arokodare's potential transfer, signaling the club's proactive stance in securing reinforcements.
Avcı acknowledges Arokodare's attributes—his towering height, goal-scoring prowess, and on-field mobility—as qualities that align seamlessly with the team's tactical framework, much like Onuachu.
Trabzonspor's interest in Arokodare stems from the need to mitigate potential obstacles in Onuachu's transfer negotiations. Despite ongoing talks with Southampton, uncertainties linger, prompting the club to explore alternative avenues.
Should Trabzonspor succeed in clinching Arokodare's signature, it would represent a significant coup for the club.
His knack for finding the back of the net, coupled with his physical presence, could bolster Trabzonspor's attacking lineup, enhancing their prospects both domestically and potentially in European competitions.
The pursuit of Arokodare underscores Trabzonspor's proactive approach to squad building as they brace themselves for the challenges ahead.
With Avcı's endorsement and the club's unwavering determination, discussions are underway to bring Arokodare to the Şenol Güneş Stadium, should the primary option of securing Onuachu's services falter.
