Tolu Arokodare’s proposed move to Besiktas may not materialize

Super Eagles striker Tolu Arokodare was linked with a move to Turkish Süper Lig giants Besiktas at the beginning of the year, but those discussions have since cooled, according to Afrik-Foot.

After joining Wolves from Genk last summer, the Nigerian striker and his teammates struggled to perform, and the club was eventually relegated from the Premier League after finishing bottom of the table.

Besiktas have monitored the Super Eagles star since the start of the year. His record in Belgium, where he scored 41 goals and provided 12 assists in 113 appearances, kept him on the radar as a top prospect.

Tolu Arokodare of Wolverhampton Wanderers celebrating goal. Copyright: xIMAGOxDylanxHepworthx/xEveryxSecondxMediax

It was believed that Besiktas would push for his signing this summer, especially as Wolves look to downsize following their relegation. However, the club appears to be pursuing a different strategy.

As a result, it is unlikely that Besiktas will move forward with the Super Eagles striker, and here’s why.

Why Besiktas Are Cooling Their Pursuit of Tolu Arokodare

Tolu Arokodare of Wolves warms up. Copyright: ImagoxNataliexMincher/SPPx

Two weeks ago, Besiktas announced the appointment of Vincenzo Italiano as their new coach. Naturally, they intend to support him in the transfer market as he reshapes the squad.

Italiano is known for an intricate style of play, which will bring significant changes to the club’s transfer approach.

Reports have already surfaced that Super Eagles captain Wilfred Ndidi will be shipped out this summer, despite having joined the club only last year.

Ndidi does not fit the new coach’s style of play, so Besiktas are looking to sign players who align with that philosophy.

In Arokodare’s case, Italiano has expressed a preference for Dušan Vlahović. Transfer specialist Nicolò Schira notes that this preference stems from the strong relationship Italiano and Vlahović built during their time at Fiorentina.

The Serbian striker is a free agent this summer, so Besiktas would not need to pay a transfer fee to secure him.

Dusan Vlahovic of Juventus FC. Copyright: xEPhotopressx SP24-1434-082

If Besiktas secure Vlahović, it would be difficult to see Arokodare playing Süper Lig football next season, as the top clubs that could afford him appear to have already filled their striker positions.

Recall that Fenerbahce, who were also eyeing him, have signed Vedat Muriqi. With Galatasaray already having Victor Osimhen and Trabzonspor retaining Paul Onuachu, Arokodare may need to remain at Wolves or look elsewhere.

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Kelvin Omachonu

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Kelvin Omachonu is a sports writer covering Nigeria, with 6 years in sports media and a Reuters Digital Journalism certification. A bettor for 7 years, he specialises in football and basketball odds and responsible gambling, and has used operators including Bet9ja, SportyBet, Betano and 1xBet.